Recipe Instructions:
Ingredients:
• 1 jar grape leaves, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup short-grain rice
• 1/2 pound ground beef or lamb (optional)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup mint, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine rice, ground meat (if using), onion, tomatoes, parsley, mint, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, allspice, and cinnamon.
2. Stuff Grape Leaves: Place a grape leaf, vein side up, on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom to the top.
3. Cook Grape Leaves: Place stuffed grape leaves seam side down in a large pot. Add water to cover, and place a heavy plate on top to keep them submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-1.5 hours.
4. Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with lemon juice and olive oil.
