Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/12 checked
6
servings
0.5 cup

fregola

3 cup

hot water

1 pound

ground pork

0.25 cup

shallots

minced

2 tsp

kosher salt

0.5 tsp

freshly ground pepper

1 tsp

marjoram

finely chopped

4 unit

marjoram sprigs

1 pinch

cinnamon

40 unit

brined grape leaves

drained

0.5 cup

fresh lemon juice

2 tbsp

extra-virgin olive oil

Step 1
~5 min

Soak fregola in hot water for 15 minutes.

Step 2
~5 min

Drain the fregola.

Step 3
~5 min

Return the fregola to a bowl.

Step 4
~5 min

Add pork, shallots, salt, pepper, chopped marjoram, and cinnamon; knead to combine.

Step 5
~5 min

Transfer meat mixture to a baking sheet and pat into a 6x12 inch rectangle.

Step 6
~5 min

Cut rectangle lengthwise into three 2-inch-wide strips and cut each strip into 12 logs.

Step 7
~5 min

Snip stems off grape leaves.

Step 8
~5 min

Smooth out a few grape leaves on a work surface.

Step 9
~5 min

Place a log of filling at the stem end of each leaf.

Step 10
~5 min

Roll up the stem end once to enclose filling, then fold in the sides.

Step 11
~5 min

Tightly roll up the leaf to form a cylinder.

Step 12
~5 min

Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Step 13
~5 min

Arrange stuffed grape leaves in a single layer in a large skillet; scatter marjoram sprigs on top.

Step 14
~5 min

Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil.

Step 15
~5 min

Add enough water to cover leaves by 1/2 inch.

Step 16
~5 min

Top with any remaining unfilled grape leaves and a plate to keep stuffed leaves submerged.

Step 17
~5 min

Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low heat for 1 hour 30 minutes, until filling is cooked.

Step 18
~5 min

Let cool in liquid.

Step 19
~5 min

Drain leaves, discard unstuffed leaves, and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 20
~5 min

Let stand for 30 minutes; serve warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Use a plate to weigh down the grape leaves while simmering to ensure even cooking.

Let the grape leaves cool in the cooking liquid to maximize flavor absorption.

Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt for added tanginess.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

20 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be made 1-2 days in advance.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Moderate
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve as an appetizer or light meal.

Accompany with a side of warm pita bread.

Serve with a Greek salad.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Tzatziki sauce
Greek salad
Pita bread

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Mediterranean

Cultural Significance

A traditional dish often served during celebrations and gatherings.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Greek Easter
Family gatherings

Occasion Tags

Dinner party
Holiday
Family gathering

Popularity Score

65/100

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