HOW TO PREPARE DOLMADES.

Preparing dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) is a delicious endeavor! Here’s a basic recipe to guide you through the process:

Ingredients:

• 1 jar of grape leaves in brine (about 60 leaves)
• 1 cup short-grain rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/2 cup pine nuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water
• Greek yogurt (for serving, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the grape leaves:
   • Remove the grape leaves from the jar and rinse them under cold water to remove excess brine. Place them in a bowl of warm water to soften while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the rice, chopped onion, dill, mint, pine nuts (if using), olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
3. Roll the dolmades:
   • Lay a grape leaf flat on a cutting board or clean surface with the shiny side down and the rib side facing up. Trim any tough stems.
   • Place about a tablespoon of filling in the center of the leaf, near the stem end. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it tightly towards the tip of the leaf, forming a compact cylinder. Repeat until all the filling is used.
4. Cook the dolmades:
   • Line the bottom of a large pot with any torn or unused grape leaves to prevent sticking. Arrange the dolmades seam side down in layers, packing them snugly but not too tightly.
   • Place a heavy plate or a few small heatproof dishes upside down on top of the dolmades to keep them from unraveling during cooking.
   • Add enough water to just cover the dolmades. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to prevent sticking.
   • Cover the pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
5. Serve:
   • Once cooked, remove the dolmades from the pot using tongs and arrange them on a serving platter. Let them cool slightly before serving.
   • Dolmades can be served warm or at room temperature, often accompanied by Greek yogurt on the side.

Enjoy your homemade dolmades! They make a delightful appetizer or main course, bursting with Mediterranean flavors.