Stuffed vine leaves at Doubletta

Stuffed Grape Leaves - a traditional delicacy with a distinctive flavor that reminds us of festive meals and moments spent with loved ones. This recipe not only combines various tastes but also offers a culinary indulgence, perfect for enjoying with family or friends. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a comforting meal, stuffed grape leaves are always an excellent choice.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 20-25 grape leaves (fresh or preserved)
- 500 g minced chicken breast
- 1 medium carrot, finely grated
- 1 stalk of leek, finely chopped
- 1 large tomato, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced thinly
- 1 cup of white rice, rinsed in three waters
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 small glass of white wine
- A bunch of dill and fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt, pepper, thyme to taste

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the grape leaves
Start by placing a pot of water with salt on the stove. When the water begins to boil, add the grape leaves and blanch them for about 3-5 minutes until they become slightly flexible. Then, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a large plate to cool.

2. Preparing the filling
In a Doubletta pan (or a non-stick skillet), add the olive oil and grated carrot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, then add the minced chicken. Stir occasionally to brown evenly.
Add the rinsed rice, chopped leek, and herbs. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, then pour in 2 tablespoons of water. Cover the pan with a lid and let the mixture cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the meat is white and the vegetables are slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Forming the stuffed leaves
Take a grape leaf and place a tablespoon of the meat and rice filling in the center. Fold the side edges over the filling, then roll the leaf from the base to the tip, forming a tight roll. If you have difficulty wrapping them, you can use kitchen twine to tie them, ensuring the filling won't leak during cooking.

4. Preparing the sauce
In another skillet, add the diced tomato, leek slices, and red bell pepper. Pour in a bit of water and oil, then add the white wine and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper and let the sauce simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomato breaks down and the pepper becomes soft. If the sauce is too thick, you can add warm water to thin it out.

5. Cooking the stuffed leaves
Place the stuffed leaves in the prepared sauce, ensuring they are completely covered. Put the lid on the skillet and let them simmer on low heat for about 40 minutes. Check occasionally, adding water if necessary to prevent the sauce from drying out.

6. Serving
When the stuffed leaves are ready, prepare a portion of polenta. Serve the stuffed leaves hot, alongside polenta, red chili peppers, and optionally, sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess. They pair perfectly, and the polenta will add a rustic and comforting touch to your dish.

Practical tips

- Grape leaves: If using canned grape leaves, make sure to rinse them well under cold water to remove excess salt.
- Meat: You can substitute chicken with pork or beef, depending on your preference. A combination of pork and beef will provide a richer flavor.
- Herbs: You can also add other herbs, such as basil or celery, to give the dish a different taste.
- Sauce: For a more flavorful sauce, you can add a few black olives or capers.

Nutritional information (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 4 g

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen grape leaves?
Yes, make sure to thaw them before use and follow the same blanching instructions.

- Can I prepare the stuffed leaves in advance?
Absolutely! They can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a little water to prevent drying out.

- What drinks pair best?
A dry white wine or a pale lager are excellent options to accompany the stuffed leaves. A fresh lemonade can also be a refreshing choice.

These stuffed grape leaves are more than just a dish - they are an invitation to spend quality time with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, bring together your family or friends, and enjoy an unforgettable moment! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: grape leaves 1 large chicken breast 1 carrot 1 leek stalk 1 large peeled tomato 1 red bell pepper dill and green parsley 1 bay leaf 1 glass of white wine 1 cup of white rice 1 tablespoon of olive oil salt, pepper, thyme