Classic Vegetarian Dolmades
Point: Dolmades are traditionally made with vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices.
Step 1: Boil the vine leaves until they are soft and pliable.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix cooked rice, chopped herbs (such as dill, mint, and parsley), chopped onions, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Step 3: Place a spoonful of the rice mixture onto each vine leaf, fold in the sides, and roll up tightly.
Step 4: Place the dolmades in a pot, cover with water and a drizzle of olive oil, and simmer for about 30 minutes.
Step 5: Serve the dolmades with a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki on the side.
Vegetarian Dolmades with a Mediterranean Twist
Point: Give your dolmades a Mediterranean flair by adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
Step 1: Follow the same steps as the classic dolmades recipe, but add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the rice mixture.
Step 2: Roll up the dolmades as usual and cook them in a pot with water, olive oil, and a splash of lemon juice.
Step 3: Sprinkle with additional feta cheese and chopped parsley before serving.
Spicy Vegetarian Dolmades with Harissa
Point: Add a kick of heat to your dolmades by incorporating harissa paste into the filling.
Step 1: Prepare the vine leaves and rice mixture as in the classic recipe.
Step 2: Mix in a spoonful of harissa paste for a spicy twist.
Step 3: Roll up the dolmades and cook them in a pot with water, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Step 4: Serve the dolmades with a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with a bit more harissa for an extra kick.
