Bell peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, and stuffed grape leaves with meat

Delicious stuffed vegetable and grape leaf rolls recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 6

I present you a recipe that combines the aromatic flavors of fresh vegetables with the savor of meat, all wrapped in tender grape leaves. This recipe for stuffed vegetables and grape leaf rolls is a true feast, perfect for family meals or special occasions. You will discover how to achieve a perfect combination of flavors and textures, and the result will surely be appreciated by everyone.

Recipe history

Stuffed vegetables and grape leaf rolls have been prepared over time in many cultures, each country contributing its own ingredients and specific techniques. These dishes are often considered symbols of hospitality, lovingly served during festive meals. Today's recipe is a version that brings together tradition and innovation, being a wonderful way to highlight vegetables.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1.5 kg minced meat (a mix of pork and beef)
- 3 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 bunches of fresh dill, chopped
- Rice (approximately 150 g, depending on preferences)
- 6 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 4 small zucchini (preferably tender)
- 4 large tomatoes
- Grape leaves (approximately 20-25, fresh or preserved)
- 200 g tomato paste
- Salt, pepper, and spices (thyme, tarragon) to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- Mineral water (approximately 200 ml)

Preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing the peppers and zucchini well. Remove the stems and seeds from the peppers, then let them drain. Cut the zucchini in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. If the zucchinis are larger, you can peel them. The scooped flesh will be boiled for later use.

2. Preparing the tomatoes: Cut a small cap off each tomato and scoop out the flesh. These will become delicious containers for the filling.

3. Blanching the grape leaves: If using fresh grape leaves, blanch them for a few minutes in hot water to make them more flexible. If they are preserved, you can rinse them under cold running water.

4. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, mix the minced meat with the onion, dill, washed rice, salt, pepper, and chosen spices. Add a little oil and mineral water to achieve a fluffier mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are integrated.

5. Filling the vegetables: Using a spoon, fill each pepper, zucchini, and tomato with the prepared meat mixture. Make sure not to overfill, as the rice will expand during cooking. At the ends of the peppers and zucchinis, you can dust them with a little flour to prevent the filling from leaking.

6. Arranging in the pot: In a large pot, arrange the stuffed vegetables in a single layer. Add the flesh from the zucchini and the chopped tomatoes, then pour diluted tomato paste with hot water. Cover everything with water, so the vegetables are almost completely submerged.

7. Boiling: Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil for about 30-40 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften slightly.

8. Baking: After boiling, transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let it bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown on top.

9. Serving: Serve the stuffed vegetables warm, garnished with yogurt or sour cream on top. This combination will add a creamy and refreshing note to the dish.

Useful tips

- If you don't have grape leaves, you can use cabbage leaves, which offer a different but equally delicious taste.
- For a spicier version, you can add hot peppers to the filling.
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as eggplants or mushrooms, to diversify the recipe.
- This dish can be prepared in advance, and the taste becomes even better the next day, after the flavors have melded.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the meat, contains fiber from the vegetables and dill, providing a significant intake of vitamins and minerals. A serving of stuffed vegetables has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the proportions of the ingredients used. It is an excellent option for a balanced and healthy meal that will give you energy throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use chicken instead of pork and beef?
Yes, chicken will provide a lighter taste and is a healthy alternative.

- How can I store leftovers?
Stuffed vegetables can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or on the stove.

- Can I freeze the stuffed vegetables?
Yes, it is recommended to freeze them before placing them in the oven. Place them in containers or freezer bags and consume them within a month.

In conclusion, this stuffed vegetable and grape leaf rolls recipe is not only a delicious dish but also a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Invest a little time in preparing this recipe and you will be rewarded with rich flavors and unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!