Vegetarian Grape Leaves

Vegetarian Grape Leaves Ingredients

1-1.5 jars grape leaves*2 cups uncooked rice1.5 cups chopped parsley1-2 large onions chopped1/2 cup olive oil3-4 tomatoes diced2 lemons juiced2 tsp dried mint1 tbsp salt more to taste1 tsp 7 spice1/2 tsp black pepperdash of cayenne pepper2 potatoes sliced (for bottom layer of pot)*Grape leaves can be picked fresh in warmer months or bought preserved in jars (make sure to wash them well).

Method

Wash rice very well in cold water, drain and add to a large bowl.Add chopped vegetables, parsley, spices, lemon & olive oil and mix well.Lay grape leaves on a flat surface, remove stem and add 1 tbsp of the mixture and roll leaves tightly.Peel, slice & wash potatoes and layer them in the bottom of the pot (you can eat these afterwards as well they taste amazing). Add all the grapes leaves the extra liquid from the mixture.I add a sprinkle of salt on top as well as some olive oil, cover with a plate making sure to push down well & add water until all of the grape leaves are covered.Bring to a boil and then lower heat and cook for 1 hour. Once most of the liquid has evaporated remove plate and cover pot with a lid and cook for another 15mins.