Vegetarian Rice Stuffed Vine Leaves (Dolmas)
These tender, herb-infused vine leaves are a classic Mediterranean delicacy, perfect as a refreshing appetizer or a light main course.
Ingredients
- •40-50 preserved vine leaves in brine
- •1.5 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- •1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- •1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- •1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- •1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
- •1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- •1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- •2 cups vegetable broth
- •1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the vine leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove excess brine and pat dry; remove any tough stems.
- 2
In a mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, onion, parsley, dill, mint, half of the olive oil, allspice, salt, and pepper.
- 3
Place a vine leaf flat on a work surface, vein side up. Place a teaspoon of the rice mixture near the stem end.
- 4
Fold the sides of the leaf inward over the filling and roll tightly from the stem end toward the tip to create a compact cylinder.
- 5
Arrange the stuffed leaves seam-side down in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot, packing them snugly against each other in layers.
- 6
Pour the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, and vegetable broth over the rolls. Place a heat-proof plate on top of the leaves to keep them submerged during cooking.
- 7
Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- 8
Remove from heat and let the rolls cool in the pot before serving at room temperature or chilled.
💡 Chef tips
- If your vine leaves are very large, cut them in half before rolling to ensure bite-sized portions.
- These are even better the next day, as the flavors meld together while resting in the refrigerator.
- Serve with a side of thick Greek yogurt or a lemon-tahini sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished dolmas should be tender, glossy, and tightly rolled, offering a bright, lemony flavor profile with aromatic fresh herbs and perfectly cooked rice.