Dolma

Turkish Dolma Recipe for 4 People

Ingredients for Dolma:

• 1 cup grape leaves, preserved in brine
• 1 cup rice, washed and drained
• 300g ground beef or lamb
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 cup currants or raisins
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced for garnish

Ingredients for Cooking:

• 2 cups vegetable broth or water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Grape Leaves:
   • Rinse the grape leaves under cold water to remove excess brine.
   • Blanch the grape leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the rice, ground meat, chopped onion, tomatoes, pine nuts, currants or raisins, dill, mint, ground cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
   • Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and continue to mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Assemble the Dolma:
   • Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, shiny side down.
   • Spoon a small amount of the filling onto the center of the leaf.
   • Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll tightly from the bottom to the top to form a compact roll.
4. Cook the Dolma:
   • Place a few lemon slices on the bottom of a pot to prevent sticking.
   • Arrange the dolma rolls in the pot, seam side down, packing them tightly.
   • Pour vegetable broth or water over the dolma until they are just covered.
   • Place a heavy plate on top to keep them from unraveling during cooking.
   • Simmer over low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the rice is fully cooked.
5. Serve:
   • Allow the dolma to cool slightly before serving.
   • Garnish with additional lemon slices and serve with yogurt on the side if desired.

Enjoy this flavorful Turkish Dolma for 4 people!