Kurdish Dolma with Herb Rice (Printable)

Savor stuffed grape leaves filled with herbed rice.

# What You Need:

→ Filling Ingredients

01 - 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
02 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 - 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
04 - 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
05 - 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
06 - 2 medium tomatoes, finely diced
07 - 1/4 cup olive oil
08 - 1 tsp ground allspice
09 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
10 - 1 1/2 tsp salt
11 - Juice of 1 lemon

→ Assembling & Cooking Ingredients

12 - 1 jar grape leaves in brine, rinsed
13 - 1 cup vegetable stock or water
14 - 2 tbsp olive oil
15 - Juice of 1 lemon
16 - Slices of 1 large tomato or potato for lining

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large bowl, combine rice, onion, parsley, dill, mint, tomatoes, olive oil, allspice, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well.
02 - Lay each grape leaf shiny side down. Place 1–2 teaspoons of filling at the stem end. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly into a cigar shape.
03 - Line the bottom of a heavy saucepan with tomato or potato slices to prevent sticking. Arrange the stuffed grape leaves seam side down, tightly packed, in layers in the saucepan.
04 - Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Pour in stock or water to almost cover the dolmas.
05 - Place a heatproof plate on top to prevent unrolling. Cover with a lid.
06 - Bring to a gentle simmer. Cook over low heat for 45–50 minutes, until leaves are tender and rice is cooked.
07 - Let cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature, with yogurt if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This dish brings everyone together, making it perfect for sharing.
  • The flavor explosion of herbs and spices feels like a warm embrace.
02 -
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment by adding ingredients like pine nuts or currants for a delightful twist.
  • Always check the grape leaves for brineiness; rinsing them well can help with this.
03 -
  • Patience pays off; allow the dolmas to rest after cooking for the best flavor.
  • Always taste your filling before wrapping—adjusting flavors at this stage is key.
Go Back