Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Stuffed Grape Leaves?
Savory Stuffed Grape Leaves are a traditional Mediterranean dish featuring delicate grape leaves filled with a mixture of lean ground lamb, herbs, and rice.
What is another name for stuffed grape leaves?
Stuffed grape leaves are also commonly known as dolmas.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of lean ground lamb, though lean ground beef can also be used.
Can I use beef instead of lamb for the filling?
Yes, the recipe specifies that lean ground beef is a suitable substitute for ground lamb.
What kind of rice is needed for the stuffing?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of raw, uncooked rice.
Do the grape leaves need to be prepared before stuffing?
Yes, you should use one 16-ounce jar of grape leaves that have been drained before use.
What kind of nuts are included in the recipe?
The recipe suggests 2 tablespoons of either pine nuts or chopped almonds.
Are the nuts mandatory in this dish?
No, the pine nuts or chopped almonds are listed as an optional ingredient.
What herbs are used to season the meat mixture?
The filling is seasoned with dried dill weed, salt, and black pepper.
What kind of sauce is served with these dolmas?
They are served with a zesty egg and lemon sauce.
How should I serve these stuffed grape leaves?
They can be served warm with sauce for a meal or cold as a refreshing appetizer.
What is the base for the egg and lemon sauce?
The sauce is made with butter, flour, chicken broth, egg yolks, and lemon juice.
How many egg yolks are required for the sauce?
The recipe calls for 4 lightly beaten egg yolks.
How much olive oil is used?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of olive oil for sautรฉing and drizzling.
What types of onions are used in the filling?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion and 1/2 cup of chopped green onion.
Is this recipe inspired by a specific source?
Yes, it is inspired by an old McCall's Cooking School recipe.
How much lemon juice is needed in total?
A total of 5 tablespoons of lemon juice is used, divided between the components.
What size can of chicken broth is needed for the sauce?
One 10 3/4 ounce can of chicken broth is required.
How much dill weed is used for seasoning?
One teaspoon of dried dill weed is used in the recipe.
Is flour used in the recipe?
Yes, 3 tablespoons of flour are used to help create the sauce.
How much butter is needed for the sauce?
Two tablespoons of butter are used in the preparation of the sauce.
How much salt is added to the sauce?
The sauce requires 1 1/4 teaspoons of salt.
What is the texture of the grape leaves?
The grape leaves are described as delicate and savory.
Are these suitable for a party?
Yes, they are an impressive addition to any Mediterranean feast or gathering.
How much ground meat is required?
The recipe requires one pound of ground meat.
Is the rice cooked before it goes into the leaves?
No, the rice is added to the filling mixture raw and uncooked.
What flavor profile does the sauce have?
The egg and lemon sauce is described as zesty and flavorful.
Can I use chopped almonds instead of pine nuts?
Yes, chopped almonds are a recommended substitute for pine nuts.
How much black pepper is used?
The recipe suggests 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper, or to taste.
What is the total number of ingredients in this recipe?
There are 17 different ingredients used to make the stuffed grape leaves and sauce.