Kurdish Dolma with Rice Filling (Printable)

Savor classic Kurdish dolma with herbed rice filling, wrapped in grape leaves.

# Ingredient List:

→ For the Filling

01 - 1 cup (200 g) long-grain rice, rinsed
02 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 - 1 cup (25 g) fresh parsley, finely chopped
04 - 1/2 cup (10 g) fresh dill, chopped
05 - 1/2 cup (10 g) fresh mint, chopped
06 - 2 medium tomatoes, finely diced
07 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil
08 - 1 tsp ground allspice
09 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
10 - 1 1/2 tsp salt
11 - Juice of 1 lemon

→ For Assembling & Cooking

12 - 1 jar (about 300 g) grape leaves in brine, rinsed
13 - 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable stock or water
14 - 2 tbsp olive oil
15 - Juice of 1 lemon
16 - Slices from 1 large tomato or potato (to line the bottom of the pan)

# Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine rice, onion, parsley, dill, mint, tomatoes, olive oil, allspice, 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.
04 - Arrange the stuffed grape leaves seam side down, tightly packed, in layers in the saucepan.
05 - Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Pour in stock or water to almost cover the dolmas.
06 - Place a heatproof plate on top to prevent unrolling. Cover with a lid.
07 - Bring to a gentle simmer. Cook over low heat for 45–50 minutes, until leaves are tender and rice is cooked.
08 - Let cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature, with yogurt if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The vibrant freshness of the herbs feels like summer, no matter the season.
  • It's a dish that brings friends and family around the table, fostering connection over shared flavors.
02 -
  • Don't skip rinsing your grape leaves; this simple step cuts down the brininess significantly.
  • If you like, toss in some pine nuts or currants for unexpected bursts of flavor!
03 -
  • Let your filling cool before rolling; this makes handling easier.
  • Baking instead of simmering can also yield delicious, slightly crispy edges.
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