Stuffed Grape Leaves (Sarma / Asma Yaprağı Sarması)

One of the most beloved olive oil–based dishes of Turkish cuisine, stuffed grape leaves are commonly prepared for special occasions and large gatherings.

Servings: 10 People

🛒 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 kg brined grape leaves or 1 kg fresh grape leaves

• 2 cups rice

• 3 medium onions

• 3 medium tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 2 tea glasses olive oil (about 200 ml total)

• 1 bunch parsley

• ½ bunch fresh mint (dried mint may also be used)

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 lemon

• Salt

🥣 Preparation

Prepare the Leaves:
If using brined leaves, dip them briefly in hot water to remove excess salt and soften them. If necessary, let them soak for a short time.

If using fresh leaves, dip them into boiling water and remove immediately. No soaking is required for salt removal.
(Note: If the leaves have thick veins, extend the blanching time slightly.)

🔥 Instructions

Prepare the Filling:
Sauté finely chopped onions in 1.5 tea glasses of olive oil.
Add grated tomatoes and tomato paste, and cook for 2–3 minutes.

Add black pepper and washed rice, and continue sautéing for another 2–3 minutes.
Stir in finely chopped parsley, mint, and salt.
(If using brined leaves, adjust the salt carefully.)

Wrap the Rolls:
Lay each leaf flat on a clean surface. Place a suitable amount of filling in the center, fold in the sides, and roll tightly into thin rolls.

Arrange in the Pot:
Line the bottom of the pot with a layer of grape leaves to prevent burning.
Arrange the stuffed rolls tightly and neatly in the pot.
Optionally, place sliced lemon on top.

Cook:
Add enough water to reach just below the top layer of rolls.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cook gently.

Ten minutes before removing from heat, drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top.

✅ Notes

• Dried mint can be used instead of fresh mint.

  

• In some regions, the filling is prepared with both rice and lentils. If preferred, use 1 cup rice and 1 cup red lentils for the filling.

• Placing the rolls tightly in the pot prevents them from falling apart.

Enjoy your meal! 🌿