Indulge in a Mediterranean delight with our Savory Stuffed Grape Leaves with Beef. This traditional dish, known as 'محشى ورق العنب باللحمة' in Arabic, is a heartwarming blend of tender grape leaves, perfectly seasoned beef, and a melody of aromatic spices. Each bite offers a journey through rich flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or a special dinner.
Preparation and Cooking Times and Total Time
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 4-5 stuffed grape leaves
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
Ingredients
- Grape Leaves: 200 grams (7 ounces)
- Ground Beef: 300 grams (10.5 ounces)
- Rice: 150 grams (5.3 ounces)
- Onion, finely chopped: 100 grams (3.5 ounces)
- Tomatoes, finely diced: 150 grams (5.3 ounces)
- Parsley, finely chopped: 30 grams (1 ounce)
- Mint, finely chopped: 15 grams (0.5 ounces)
- Lemon Juice: 45 ml (1.5 ounces)
- Olive Oil: 30 ml (1 ounce)
- Salt: 5 grams (0.18 ounces)
- Black Pepper: 2 grams (0.07 ounces)
- Allspice: 2 grams (0.07 ounces)
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Prepare Grape Leaves: Rinse the grape leaves in warm water and trim the stems.
- Cook Rice: Partially cook the rice for about 10 minutes, then drain.
- Mix Filling: Combine ground beef, partially cooked rice, onions, tomatoes, parsley, mint, half of the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and allspice in a bowl.
- Stuff Leaves: Place a small amount of the filling on each leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly.
- Cook Stuffed Leaves: Place the rolls in a pot, seam side down. Cover with water, remaining lemon juice, and a plate to keep them submerged. Simmer for about 50-60 minutes.
- Serve: Let them cool slightly, then serve with a side of yogurt or fresh salad.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Soak the grape leaves in hot water for a few minutes if they are too stiff to roll.
- Don’t overfill the leaves to prevent them from bursting during cooking.
- Cook the stuffed grape leaves on low heat to ensure they are cooked thoroughly without falling apart.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use lamb instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Lamb is a traditional alternative that offers a richer flavor.
Q: How can I store the leftovers?
A: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Is this dish suitable for freezing?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked stuffed grape leaves for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating gently.