Authentic Middle Eastern Stuffed Grape Leaves Aleppo Style

5 stars
4.61 (16)
Authentic Middle Eastern Stuffed Grape Leaves Aleppo Style
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
60 mins
Total Time:
80mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 09, 2023

Indulge in the delightful flavors of the Middle East with this authentic Grape Leaves Aleppo recipe. These stuffed grape leaves are a delicious and traditional dish, filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, herbs, and spices. The dish is then steamed to perfection, resulting in tender grape leaves that are bursting with flavor. This recipe is the perfect choice for those who are looking to explore new flavors and cuisines. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy this hearty and satisfying dish!

Ingredients

  • 1 jar grape leaves
  • 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Prepare the grape leaves by rinsing and draining them well.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, lemon juice, olive oil, allspice, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix the ingredients together until well combined.
  4. Take one grape leaf and place it flat on a clean surface, vein side up.
  5. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of the leaf.
  6. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly.
  7. Repeat this process with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
  8. In a large pot, arrange the rolled grape leaves in a single layer.
  9. Pour enough water into the pot to cover the grape leaves.
  10. Place a heatproof plate on top of the grape leaves to keep them submerged in water.
  11. Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water to a boil.
  12. Reduce the heat to low and let the grape leaves simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the rice is cooked and the grape leaves are tender.
  13. Once cooked, remove the heatproof plate and drain any excess water.
  14. Serve the grape leaves hot or at room temperature, garnished with lemon slices.
  15. Enjoy the delicious flavors of authentic Middle Eastern Grape Leaves Aleppo!

Interesting Facts

  • In Aleppo, Syria, grape leaves are a staple ingredient in many dishes.
  • Grape leaves have been used in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries.
  • Stuffed grape leaves are known by different names depending on the region, such as dolma, dolmades, or waraq al-'inab.
  • The combination of ground beef, rice, herbs, and spices gives these grape leaves a unique and delicious flavor.