Stuffed Grape Leaves, the old family classic.

I had more time than I was used to today and I think I may have gotten a little cared away. But I was hungry and needed something comforting. So there I went.

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Greek Dolmades)

• 1 (16-ounce) jar grape leaves, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon
• ~2 Cups Rice Filling

The Filling

• 1/2 cup Onion, minced
• 2 Tbl Olive Oil
• 1 Cup Long Grain Rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbl sugar
• 1/2 tbl cinnamon
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tbl fresh dillweed, minced
• 2 tbl fresh parsley, minced
• TT Salt
• TT Black Pepper

Procedure

Before doing anything with the leaves it is wise to have your rice filling prepared and cooled. This will ensure the leaves stay intact. Your filling can and will vary, I’ll save that for a latter day perhaps. To keep it simple saute the onion in olive oil. Then combine the rice, water, sugar amd cinnamon. Cover and let cook gently until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and combine the lemon juice, dillweed, parsley, salt and pepper. Let cool for about half an hour.

Out of the jar (my godmother would kill me) and into a simmering pot of water to tenderize the leaves and rid them of that brine taste:

Let leaves simmer for 2-3 minutes, then drain carefully. Lay leaves on a towel.

Remove the stems, and your a ready to roll, yes, literally.

How to Stuff and Roll Grape Leaves

Start with the stem side up, place your filling in the middle, fold leaves in. 1. 2. 3. 4. Then roll away. Illustrated:

Once rolled place in a heavy pot and align. Overcrowding will not give your stuffed grape leaves enough space to cook, and not enough will give you an uneven result in texture. Try not to go more than two rows in height, as well. If you have any left over leaves lay them down underneath the rolls to prevent them from sticking to the pot. Fill with water, olive oil, and lemon juice. Now place a plate (something oven safe) on top to hold them down and keep them from unrolling. Bring to a simmer then place in a 350 degree oven.