17 Greek Dolmades Recipe Vegetarian Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 31, 2024
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in vegetarian and plant-based diets, with more and more people choosing to incorporate meatless meals into their daily routines. One popular dish that has gained popularity among vegetarians is Greek dolmades, also known as stuffed grape leaves. This traditional Greek dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any vegetarian's recipe collection. In this article, we will delve into the world of Greek dolmades, exploring its history, ingredients, and providing a simple and easy-to-follow recipe for you to try at home. So, grab your apron and get ready to embark on a tasty journey through the flavors of Greece.
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic
If you're a fan of Greek cuisine, you've probably heard of dolmades. These delicious little bundles are made by wrapping seasoned rice and herbs in grape leaves and cooking them to perfection. They make a great appetizer or side dish for any meal, and are perfect for parties and gatherings. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make at home. Here are 20 different variations of this classic dish that you can try today.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)
Main Ingredients: Cucumber, Kosher Salt, Greek Yogurt, Ground Black
Traditionally, dolmades are made with a filling of rice, herbs, and ground meat. However, for a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute the meat with other ingredients such as beans, lentils, or vegetables. This version of dolmades is bursting with flavor and perfect for those who prefer a plant-based diet. Serve them with a side of tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.
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Dolmeh (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Diced Yellow Onion, Scallions, Garlic
In Persian cuisine, dolmeh is a popular dish made with stuffed grape leaves. Unlike the Greek version, dolmeh typically uses a mixture of rice and ground meat for the filling, along with a variety of herbs and spices. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be served as a main course or appetizer.
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Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma)
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Olive Oil, Finely Chopped Onions, White
For a more traditional take on dolmades, try this Greek recipe for stuffed grape leaves. The filling is made with a combination of rice, ground beef, and aromatic herbs like mint and dill. These dolmades are then cooked in a rich tomato sauce, giving them a delicious and tangy flavor. Serve them with a side of lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves with Cucumber-Yogurt Sauce
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Salt, Tomatoes, Olive Oil, Large Yellow
This dolma recipe takes a different approach by serving the stuffed grape leaves with a refreshing cucumber-yogurt sauce. The filling is made with rice, ground lamb, and a variety of spices, giving it a flavorful kick. The cool and creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the warm and savory dolmades, making it a must-try for any Greek food lover.
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Greek Dolmades With Cannelloni Beans
Main Ingredients: Cannellini Beans, Onion, Sea Salt, Bay Leaf, Olive Oil
For a twist on the traditional dolmades, try this recipe that uses cannelloni beans in the filling. The beans add a hearty and creamy texture to the dolmades, making them even more satisfying. They are then cooked in a flavorful broth and served with a side of lemon and dill.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves… not dolmades!
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Tomatoes, Beef, Fresh Parsley, Salt
While dolmades are a popular dish in Greek and Middle Eastern cuisines, many other cultures have their own version of stuffed grape leaves. In Armenia, they are known as dolma, and in Turkey, they are called dolmalar. These variations often have their own unique twists and flavors, making them worth trying as well.
Main Ingredients: Vine Leaves, Rice, Olive Oil, Onions, Warm Water
This recipe for dolmades stays true to its Greek roots with a filling made of rice, ground meat, and a variety of herbs and spices. The dolmades are then rolled and cooked in a flavorful broth, giving them a rich and savory flavor. Serve them as a main dish or as a side to your favorite Greek meal.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves (dolmades)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Medium Yellow Onion, Olive Oil
This traditional recipe for dolmades uses a combination of rice, ground beef, and lamb for the filling, along with a variety of herbs and spices. The grape leaves are then rolled and cooked in a tangy lemon and tomato sauce, giving them a burst of flavor. Serve them with a side of Greek salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Dolmadakia (Dolmades) Stuffed Grape leaves
Main Ingredients: Rice, Grape Leaves, Fresh Dill, Italian Parsley, Fresh
This recipe for dolmades features a unique combination of ingredients, including ground pork, raisins, and pine nuts. The sweet and savory filling is wrapped in grape leaves and then cooked in a rich tomato sauce, giving it a delicious and complex flavor. This version of dolmades is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with new and exciting flavors.
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Arborio Rice, Tomato, Ground Allspice
In Lebanese cuisine, stuffed grape leaves are often served with stuffed squash, known as koussa. This recipe combines the two dishes for a hearty and delicious meal. The grape leaves are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground beef, and herbs, while the squash is filled with a spiced meat and rice mixture. Serve them together for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Jun 5 Vegetarian Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab,...
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Short Grain Rice, Parsley, Dried Mint
For a vegetarian version of dolmades, try this recipe that uses a variety of vegetables, including bell peppers, eggplant, and zucchini, for the filling. The result is a colorful and flavorful dish that is perfect for those who are looking to add more plant-based options to their diet. Top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy addition.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Long Grain Rice, Yellow Onion, Dried Dill
If you're looking for a quick and easy recipe for dolmades, this one is for you. It uses pre-made grape leaves and a simple filling of rice, herbs, and ground beef. The dolmades are then cooked in a tomato and lemon broth, giving them a tangy and delicious flavor. They make a great appetizer or side dish for any meal.
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Mediterranean Stuffed Grape Leaves {Dolmas}
Main Ingredients: Brown Rice, Meat, Onion, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
This recipe for dolmades takes inspiration from various Mediterranean cuisines, combining the flavors of Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. The filling is made with a combination of rice, ground beef, and aromatic spices, and then rolled in grape leaves and cooked to perfection. Serve them with a side of Greek salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Greek Cauliflower Salad Bowls
Main Ingredients: Cauliflower Rice, Olive Oil, Minced Garlic, Fine Sea
For a lighter and healthier version of dolmades, try this recipe that uses cauliflower rice as a base. The cauliflower is mixed with a variety of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, including olives, feta cheese, and lemon juice, for a flavorful and nutritious salad. Top it with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Greek Cauliflower Rice Pilaf Bowls
Main Ingredients: Head Cauliflower, Olive Oil, Garlic Powder, Fine Sea
Another way to incorporate dolmades into your diet in a healthier way is by using cauliflower rice in place of traditional rice. This recipe combines the rice with a variety of Greek-inspired ingredients, including tomatoes, feta cheese, and herbs, for a flavorful and nutritious pilaf. Serve it in a bowl with a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Lemony Greek Dolmathes with Toasted Pine Nuts
Main Ingredients: Rice, Grape Leaves, Dried Dill, Fresh Dill, Fresh Mint
This recipe for dolmades puts a twist on the traditional version by using a combination of lemon and pine nuts for added flavor and texture. The filling is made with a mixture of rice, ground beef, and herbs, and the dolmades are cooked in a tangy lemon broth. The toasted pine nuts add a delicious nuttiness to the dish, making it a must-try for any dolma lover.
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Greek Salad Gyro Plate {restaurant diy}
Main Ingredients: Mixed Salad Greens, Meat, English Cucumber, Cherry
For a unique twist on dolmades, try this recipe that combines them with other Greek favorites, including gyro meat and Greek salad. The dolmades are topped with a creamy tzatziki sauce and served alongside a salad made with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives. This dish is perfect for those who are looking for a full meal with a variety of flavors and textures.
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Lebanese Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Ground Beef, Salt, Spice, White Rice
This Lebanese recipe for dolmades uses a combination of rice, ground beef, and herbs for the filling, and is cooked in a tangy tomato broth. The dolmades are then served with a side of Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy addition. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold and flavorful dishes with a touch of Middle Eastern influence.
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Dolmas (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil, Long
This traditional recipe for dolmades features a simple yet delicious filling of rice, ground beef, and herbs, and is cooked in a flavorful lemon and tomato broth. The dolmades are then topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tanginess. This version of dolmades is perfect for those who enjoy classic and authentic Greek flavors.
The History of Greek Dolmades
The origins of dolmades
The word "dolmades" comes from the Turkish word "dolma," which means "stuffed." However, this dish can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was traditionally served during special occasions and celebrations. In ancient times, the stuffing for dolmades typically consisted of rice, herbs, and meat. However, as vegetarianism became more prevalent, the meat was replaced with a variety of vegetables and grains, making it a perfect option for those following a plant-based diet.
The significance of grape leaves
One of the essential ingredients in Greek dolmades is the grape leaves. In ancient Greece, grape leaves were considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity and were often used to wrap food as a way to preserve it. The use of grape leaves in dolmades not only adds a unique flavor to the dish but also pays homage to the rich history and culture of Greece.
The Ingredients
The main ingredients
The main ingredients in Greek dolmades include grape leaves, rice, herbs, and olive oil. The grape leaves are typically pickled or brined and can be found in most Mediterranean or Middle Eastern grocery stores. The rice is usually long-grain and can be substituted with quinoa for a healthier alternative. The herbs used in this dish are typically parsley, dill, and mint, which add a refreshing and aromatic flavor to the dolmades. Olive oil, which is a staple in Greek cuisine, is used to bind the ingredients together and add a rich and savory taste.
Other optional ingredients
While the traditional recipe for dolmades is vegetarian, some variations include the addition of meat such as ground beef or lamb. However, for a fully vegetarian version, you can add chopped vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, and onions to add more flavor and texture to the dish. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
The Recipe
To make these delicious Greek dolmades, you will need:
- 1 jar of pickled or brined grape leaves
- 1 cup of long-grain rice (or quinoa)
- 1/4 cup of chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup of chopped dill
- 1/4 cup of chopped mint
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
1. Rinse the grape leaves in cold water and drain them.
2. In a separate pot, cook the rice (or quinoa) according to the package instructions.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chopped herbs, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Lay a grape leaf flat on a cutting board, shiny side down, and add a spoonful of the rice mixture in the center.
5. Roll the leaf up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining grape leaves and rice mixture.
7. Place the rolled dolmades in a pot, seam side down, making sure they are tightly packed.
8. Add enough water to cover the dolmades and bring to a boil.
9. Reduce the heat and let the dolmades simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.
10. Serve hot or cold, garnished with lemon wedges and a drizzle of olive oil.
In conclusion, Greek dolmades are a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dish that has withstood the test of time. Whether you're a seasoned vegetarian or looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this dish is a must-try. So, next time you're in the mood for a taste of Greece, whip up a batch of these flavorful and healthy dolmades.
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