Discover the secret to preparing the most delicious and authentic dolma with our step-by-step guide. This traditional recipe features tender grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. Impress your guests with this classic dish that's perfect for special occasions or a delightful family meal.Dolma is a popular dish in many Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Central Asian countries. It is typically made by stuffing vegetables with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat. The most common vegetables used for dolma are grape leaves, zucchini, eggplant, and peppers.Dolma is a dish that is loved by many for its unique blend of flavors and textures. The rice filling is often seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, giving it a fragrant aroma and a delicious taste. The grape leaves or vegetables provide a slightly tangy and slightly bitter flavor that complements the filling perfectly.One of the great things about dolma is that it is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. For example, if you prefer a heartier dish, you can add ground beef or lamb to the filling. Alternatively, if you are vegetarian or vegan, you can omit the meat and simply use vegetables.

When making dolma, it's important to choose the right type of grape leaves or vegetables. For grape leaves, you can use either fresh or canned leaves. If using fresh leaves, be sure to blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes to soften them before using. If using canned leaves, be sure to rinse them well to remove any excess brine.For vegetables, you can use a variety of options such as zucchini, eggplant, peppers, or even tomatoes. When using vegetables, be sure to choose ones that are firm and not too ripe, as they will hold their shape better when cooked.

In terms of presentation, dolma can be served either hot or cold. It's often served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, depending on the portion size. Dolma is also frequently served with yogurt or tzatziki sauce, which helps to balance out the flavors and adds a creamy texture to the dish.

Overall, dolma is a delicious and nutritious dish that is loved by many around the world. Whether you're looking for a vegetarian or meat-filled option, dolma is a great option that can be customized to suit your tastes.

Here is a step-by-step method for making dolma:

Ingredients:

1- 1 jar of grape leaves (if using)

2- 1 cup of rice

3- 1 onion, chopped

4- 1/2 cup of parsley, chopped

5- 1/2 cup of mint, chopped

6- 1/4 cup of olive oil

7- 1 tsp of salt

8- 1/2 tsp of black pepper

9- 1/4 tsp of cinnamon

10- 1/4 tsp of allspice

11- 1/4 tsp of nutmeg

12- 1/4 tsp of cumin

13- Juice of 1 lemon

14- 1 1/2 cups of water

15- Optional: ground beef or lamb

Instructions:

1- If using grape leaves, drain and rinse them in cold water. If using fresh vegetables, wash and prepare them by cutting off the tops and scooping out the insides.

2- In a large bowl, mix together the rice, onion, parsley, mint, olive oil, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and cumin. If using meat, add it now and mix well.

3- Place a grape leaf (or vegetable) on a clean work surface with the shiny side facing down. Place a spoonful of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.

4- Fold the bottom of the leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a little package. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

5- Place the dolma in a pot, seam side down, packing them in tightly. Pour the lemon juice and water over the dolma.

6- Place a plate on top of the dolma to keep them from floating, then cover the pot with a lid and bring to a boil.

7- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.

8- Remove from heat and let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes:

1- If using fresh vegetables, you may need to parboil them for a few minutes before stuffing them.

2- You can also add other herbs or spices to the filling, such as dill, coriander, or paprika.

3- Dolma can be served hot or cold, and is often accompanied by yogurt or tzatziki sauce.

Nutrition Facts

 (per serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 327
• Total Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat:
• 2gCholesterol:
• 0mgSodium: 666mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 49g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 5g

Note:

These nutrition facts are based on dolma made with grape leaves and no meat. The nutritional content will vary depending on the type of vegetable and whether or not meat is added.

Here are the nutrition facts for the ingredients listed for Dolma. Please note that the values provided are approximate and can vary depending on specific brands, cooking methods, and portion sizes.

1. 1 jar of grape leaves (if using)

  - Calories: Varies based on brand, typically around 10-20 calories per serving (4-5 leaves)

  - Carbohydrates: Varies, usually around 2-4 grams per serving

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Varies, check label for specific information

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like calcium and iron

  - Nutritional Benefits: Low in calories and a source of vitamins and minerals.

2. 1 cup of rice

  - Calories: Approximately 200 calories

  - Carbohydrates: About 45 grams

  - Protein: About 4 grams

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of B vitamins, iron, and magnesium

  - Nutritional Benefits: Good source of carbohydrates for energy.

3. 1 onion, chopped

  - Calories: Approximately 45 calories

  - Carbohydrates: About 11 grams

  - Protein: About 1 gram

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: 3 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin C, B vitamins, and potassium

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides antioxidants and essential nutrients.

4. 1/2 cup of parsley, chopped

  - Calories: Approximately 11 calories

  - Carbohydrates: About 2 grams

  - Protein: About 1 gram

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: 12 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate

  - Nutritional Benefits: Contains antioxidants and supports bone health.

5. 1/2 cup of mint, chopped

  - Calories: Approximately 6 calories

  - Carbohydrates: About 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: 1 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin A and antioxidants

  - Nutritional Benefits: Aids digestion and provides fresh flavor.

6. 1/4 cup of olive oil

  - Calories: Approximately 480 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: About 54 grams (mostly monounsaturated fat)

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin E and K, and antioxidants

  - Nutritional Benefits: Healthy source of fat, particularly monounsaturated fats.

7. 1 tsp of salt

  - Calories: 0 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 2,300 mg (varies based on type)

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: No significant vitamins or minerals

  - Nutritional Benefits: Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation.

8. 1/2 tsp of black pepper

  - Calories: 3 calories

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin K and manganese

  - Nutritional Benefits: Adds flavor and may have antioxidant properties.

9. 1/4 tsp of cinnamon

  - Calories: 1 calorie

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of calcium and iron

  - Nutritional Benefits: May have anti-inflammatory properties.

10. 1/4 tsp of allspice

  - Calories: 1 calorie

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin C and manganese

  - Nutritional Benefits: Adds flavor and may have antioxidant properties.

11. 1/4 tsp of nutmeg

  - Calories: 1 calorie

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin A and iron

  - Nutritional Benefits: Adds flavor and may have antibacterial properties.

12. 1/4 tsp of cumin

  - Calories: 2 calories

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: 2 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of iron and manganese

  - Nutritional Benefits: Adds flavor and may aid digestion.

13. Juice of 1 lemon

  - Calories: Approximately 12 calories

  - Carbohydrates: About 4 grams

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: 1 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin C and antioxidants

  - Nutritional Benefits: Supports immune health and adds acidity to dishes.

14. 1 1/2 cups of water

  - Calories: 0 calories

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Sodium: 0 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: No significant vitamins or minerals

  - Nutritional Benefits: Essential for hydration and cooking.

15 - Ground Beef (4-ounce serving, cooked):

 - Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Protein: About 25-30 grams

 - Fat: About 17-25 grams (varies based on fat content)

 - Sodium: Varies, check label for specific information

 - Cholesterol: Varies, check label for specific information

 - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains B vitamins (especially B12), iron, zinc, and selenium

 - Nutritional Benefits: Good source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients, but choose lean cuts for lower fat content.

16 - Lamb (4-ounce serving, cooked):

 - Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Protein: About 25-30 grams

 - Fat: About 17-25 grams (varies based on fat content)

 - Sodium: Varies, check label for specific information

 - Cholesterol: Varies, check label for specific information

 - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains B vitamins (especially B12), iron, zinc, and selenium

 - Nutritional Benefits: Good source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients, but choose lean cuts for lower fat content.

Please note that these nutrition facts are based on the individual ingredients and do not include any additional seasonings or cooking methods. The overall nutritional profile of the final dish may vary depending on the specific recipe and variations in ingredient quantities used.