Beat the Pricey Deli: Roll Your Own Greek Dolmades (Recipe Included)
I recently saw stuffed Greek-style grape leaves selling at a trendy deli for $1.25. Each. As those who have tasted these “dolmades” already know, they can quickly be addicting and you could eat yourself broke at that price. Originating from the Arabic word “dolma,” meaning “stuffed,” the word evolved into “dolmades” in Greece and is a traditional dish of grape leaves stuffed with rice, meat, lentils and seasonings served as an appetizer or entrée.
With that pre-made price tag as my incentive to find a cheaper alternative, as well as find a vegetarian option to the meat filling, this recipe evolved. A very forgiving ingredient list, feel free to experiment to season and flavor to taste. While this makes a big batch, you’ll be surprised how quickly they disappear. The dolmades will typically stay fresh in the refrigerator for about a week; add a drizzle of olive oil or water if they start to dry out.
