Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Georgia with Georgia Gebjalia's delectable cheese rolls encased in tender grape leaves. A fusion of tradition and innovation, these savory delights feature a tantalizing blend of creamy cheeses wrapped in the natural sweetness of grape leaves. Each bite offers a harmonious marriage of textures and tastes, perfectly encapsulating the essence of Georgian cuisine. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a centerpiece dish, Georgia Gebjalia's cheese rolls in grape leaves promise a culinary journey like no other.

Ingredients:

For the Cheese Filling:

• 250g feta cheese, crumbled
• 250g sulguni cheese (or substitute with mozzarella), grated
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Grape Leaves:

• 1 jar of grape leaves (about 50 leaves), rinsed and drained
• Boiling water, for blanching

For Assembly:

• Olive oil, for brushing
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Cheese Filling:

1- In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, grated sulguni (or mozzarella) cheese, beaten egg, chopped parsley, and chopped dill.

2- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3- Mix until well combined. Set aside.

Prepare the Grape Leaves:

1- Rinse the grape leaves under cold water to remove excess brine.

2- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

3- Blanch the grape leaves in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes to soften them.

4- Remove the grape leaves from the boiling water and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.

5- Drain the grape leaves and pat them dry with paper towels.

Assemble the Cheese Rolls:

1- Lay a grape leaf flat on a clean work surface, shiny side down, with the stem end facing you.

2- Place a tablespoon of the cheese filling near the stem end of the grape leaf.

3- Fold the sides of the grape leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top, forming a compact roll.

4- Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and cheese filling.

Cook the Cheese Rolls:

1- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2- Brush the bottom of a baking dish with olive oil.

3- Arrange the cheese rolls in the baking dish, seam side down, making sure they are snugly packed.

4- Brush the tops of the cheese rolls with olive oil.

5- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the grape leaves are tender and slightly crispy.

Serve:

1- Remove the cheese rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly.

2- Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Georgia Gebjalia-inspired Cheese Rolls Wrapped in Grape Leaves!

Nutritional Values :

Feta Cheese (250g):

• Calories: 660 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 54g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Calcium: 800mg

benefits

• Rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins.
• Provides essential nutrients for bone health and muscle repair.

Sulguni Cheese or Mozzarella (250g):

• Calories: 710 kcal (for sulguni) / 610 kcal (for mozzarella)
• Protein: 45g (for sulguni) / 42g (for mozzarella)
• Fat: 56g (for sulguni) / 38g (for mozzarella)
• Carbohydrates: 5g (for sulguni) / 2g (for mozzarella)
• Calcium: 1300mg (for sulguni) / 800mg (for mozzarella)

benefits

• Good source of protein and calcium.
• Contributes to bone strength and supports muscle function.

Egg (1 large, lightly beaten):

• Calories: 70 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 1g

benefits

• High-quality protein source.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and selenium.

Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, finely chopped):

• Calories: 2 kcal
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 0.4g

benefits

• Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K.
• Supports immune health and may aid in digestion.

Fresh Dill (1 tablespoon, finely chopped):

• Calories: 2 kcal
• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 0.4g

benefits

• Contains flavonoids and monoterpenes with antioxidant properties.
• May help reduce inflammation and improve digestion.

Grape Leaves (1 jar, about 50 leaves):

• Calories: 50 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits

• Low in calories and fat.
• High in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and calcium.

Olive Oil (for brushing):

• Calories: 120 kcal (1 tablespoon)
• Fat: 14g
• No protein or carbohydrates

benefits

• Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
• Supports heart health and may help reduce inflammation.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, specific type of cheese used, and other variables. Additionally, the serving size may vary depending on individual preferences.