Dolmades

Dolmades

Greek ยท Recipe

Dolmades is a story-rich Greek starter that opens the meal with clear regional flavour, simple presentation and a strong sense of place.

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About this dish

Greek cuisine

Ingredients

  • 20 vine leaves
  • 200g rice
  • 1 onion
  • Fresh mint and dill
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper

Description

Dolmades is more than a starter: it is a route into Greek island and mainland cooking, shaped by olive oil, herbs, grains, yoghurt and the Aegean table. The dish is built around olive oil, lemon, herbs, feta, vegetables, lamb, fish and honey, giving it a flavour that feels both practical and deeply connected to its origin. It works especially well for sunny lunches, mezze-style meals and generous family cooking, and it gives readers a clear way to understand how ingredients, technique and food history meet on the plate. Dolmades are a beloved Greek finger food served cold or warm, often with a drizzle of lemon.

Instructions

  1. Blanch vine leaves.
  2. Mix rice, herbs, onion, and seasonings.
  3. Roll into leaves, place in a pot, cover with water and lemon juice.
  4. Simmer for 40 minutes.