🇦🇿 Azerbaijani Cuisine

Dolma

Azerbaijani Stuffed Grape Leaves

Prep Time 45 min

Servings 6

Difficulty Hard

Calories 304 kcal

Tender grape leaves wrapped around a fragrant filling of seasoned ground lamb, rice, and fresh herbs. These delicate parcels are simmered until the flavors meld into a quintessential Azerbaijani appetizer.

Ingredients

300g grape leaves, fresh or preserved
400g ground lamb
150g short-grain rice, soaked
1 large onion, finely diced
1 bunch fresh mint, chopped
1 bunch fresh dill, chopped
1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Yogurt for serving

Instructions

1 Blanch grape leaves in boiling water for 2 minutes and drain.
2 Mix lamb, soaked rice, onion, herbs, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper.
3 Place a spoonful of filling on each grape leaf and roll tightly, tucking in sides.
4 Layer rolls seam-side down in a heavy pot.
5 Add lemon juice and enough water to barely cover.
6 Place a plate on top to weigh down, cover, and simmer 60 minutes.
7 Serve warm with yogurt on the side.

Did You Know?

Azerbaijani dolma was inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2017, recognizing the deep cultural significance of dolma-making traditions across the country.