Discover how to make Yabraq, a traditional Syrian dish of stuffed grape leaves. This delicious recipe features tender grape leaves filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a hearty meal or special occasion, Yabraq is a classic Middle Eastern delicacy that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 jar grape leaves, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup short-grain rice
- 300g ground beef or lamb
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup pine nuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the rice, pine nuts (if using), tomato paste, parsley, dill, mint, allspice, cinnamon, pepper, and salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Stuff the Grape Leaves:
- Lay a grape leaf flat on a clean surface, shiny side down. Place a small spoonful of the filling mixture in the center of the leaf.
- Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
Cook the Yabraq:
- Arrange the stuffed grape leaves in a large pot, seam side down. Pack them tightly to prevent unrolling during cooking.
- Pour the remaining olive oil and chicken or vegetable broth over the stuffed grape leaves.
- Place a heatproof plate or a lid on top to keep the rolls submerged. Cover the pot and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the grape leaves and rice are tender.
Serve:
- Let the Yabraq cool slightly before serving. Garnish with lemon slices if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Yabraq as a delightful appetizer or main course!
Nutritional Values
For the Grape Leaves Dish:
Grape Leaves (1 jar, ~250g)
- Calories: ~18
- Protein: ~1g
- Fat: ~0.3g
- Carbohydrates: ~3g
- Fiber: ~2g
Benefits:
- Low in calories and high in fiber.
- Provides vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants.
Short-Grain Rice (1 cup, ~200g)
- Calories: ~365
- Protein: ~7g
- Fat: ~0.6g
- Carbohydrates: ~80g
- Fiber: ~1g
Benefits:
- Provides energy through carbohydrates.
- Can be a good source of protein and minimal fat.
Ground Beef or Lamb (300g)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~0g
Nutritional Values (per 100g, lamb):
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~0g
Benefits:
- Rich in protein for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Onion (1 large, ~150g)
- Calories: ~40
- Protein: ~1g
- Fat: ~0.1g
- Carbohydrates: ~9g
- Fiber: ~1.7g
Benefits:
- Adds flavor and nutrients.
- Contains antioxidants and may support heart health.
Garlic (2 cloves, ~6g)
- Calories: ~149
- Protein: ~6g
- Fat: ~0.5g
- Carbohydrates: ~33g
Benefits:Adds flavor and potential health benefits such as immune support and anti-inflammatory effects.
Pine Nuts (1/2 cup, ~70g, optional)
- Calories: ~673
- Protein: ~14g
- Fat: ~68g
- Carbohydrates: ~13g
- Fiber: ~3.7g
Benefits:
- Rich in healthy fats and protein.
- Provides vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and magnesium.
Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, ~15g)
- Calories: ~36
- Protein: ~3g
- Fat: ~0.8g
- Carbohydrates: ~6g
- Fiber: ~3.3g
Benefits:
- Rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
- Provides antioxidants and supports digestion.
Fresh Dill (1/4 cup, ~15g)
- Calories: ~43
- Protein: ~3.5g
- Fat: ~1g
- Carbohydrates: ~7g
- Fiber: ~2g
Benefits:
- Contains vitamins A and C.
- Provides digestive and antimicrobial benefits.
Fresh Mint (1/4 cup, ~15g)
- Calories: ~70
- Protein: ~3g
- Fat: ~1g
- Carbohydrates: ~14g
- Fiber: ~8g
Benefits:
- Adds flavor and provides vitamins and antioxidants.
- Can aid in digestion and relieve nausea.
Ground Allspice (1 teaspoon)
- Calories: ~290
- Protein: ~6g
- Fat: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~64g
Benefits:
- Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
- Calories: ~247
- Protein: ~4g
- Fat: ~1g
- Carbohydrates: ~81g
Benefits:
- Adds sweetness and warmth.
- Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory effects.
Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
- Calories: ~255
- Protein: ~10g
- Fat: ~3.3g
- Carbohydrates: ~64g
Benefits:
- Adds spice and may aid digestion.
- Contains piperine, which can enhance nutrient absorption.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
- Calories: ~0
- Protein: ~0g
- Fat: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~0g
Benefits:Enhances flavor; use in moderation to manage sodium intake.
Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons, ~30g)
- Calories: ~82
- Protein: ~4g
- Fat: ~0.5g
- Carbohydrates: ~19g
Benefits:Adds a concentrated tomato flavor and nutrients like lycopene.
Olive Oil (1/4 cup, ~60ml)
- Calories: ~884
- Protein: ~0g
- Fat: ~100g
- Carbohydrates: ~0g
Benefits:
- Provides healthy fats and antioxidants.
- Supports heart health and overall wellness.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth (2 cups, ~480ml)
- Calories: ~10
- Protein: ~1g
- Fat: ~0.5g
- Carbohydrates: ~1g
Benefits:
- Adds flavor with minimal calories.
- Can provide some nutrients depending on the broth's content.
Lemon Slices (for garnish)
- Calories: ~29
- Protein: ~1g
- Fat: ~0.3g
- Carbohydrates: ~9g
- Fiber: ~2.8g
Benefits:
- Adds a tangy flavor and vitamin C.
- Provides antioxidants and can enhance flavor.
These ingredients work together to create a flavorful and nutritious dish. Enjoy your cooking!
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