Everything you gotta know to embrace this useful ingredient.
Claudia Totir/Getty Images
Grape leaves are a versatile ingredient, long embraced by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.
But what are grape leaves, exactly?
Photo:Claudia Totir/Getty Images
What Are Grape Leaves?
Grape leaves are exactly what they sound like: leaves harvested from grapevines.
Texturally, grape leaves are tender yet sturdy, making for the perfect edible wrapping paper.
The Spruce / Ahlam Raffii
What Are Grape Leaves Stuffed With?
If youre wondering what grape leaves are stuffed with, it really depends.
The options for fillings are endless.
The Spruce
Ground meat like beef,chicken, and lamb are also frequently included in grape leaf stuffings.
When not fresh, grape leaves are often found in cans or jars, preserved in brine.
ensure to begin by preparing the grape leaves appropriately, depending on whether theyre fresh or preserved.
Serious Eats / Mai Kakish
Stuffing
Place a grape leaf on a flat work surface with the vein side facing up.
Add a spoonful of filling near the stem end of the leaf.
Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, and roll it into a tight cylinder.
The filling should be securely wrapped by the grape leaf.
Cooking
Arrange the stuffed grape leaves seam side down in a wide saucepan.
Pour in just enough water to cover the grape leaves by about an inch.
To save yourself some time, try mincing the onions in afood processor!
Herbs and lemon juice are added to balance out the richness of the meat.
In this recipe, the stuffed grape leaves get cooked in a flavorful broth withtomato pasteand spices.
