Levantine

Grape Leaves with Olive Oil (Yalangi)

A delicious Levantine appetizer of grape leaves stuffed with rice and vegetables seasoned with pomegranate molasses, olive oil, and lemon.

2 h 4 servings 360 cal/serving Medium 10 views
Grape Leaves with Olive Oil (Yalangi)

Instructions

  1. Preparing the Filling
    In a large bowl, mix the Egyptian rice with the tomatoes, onion, parsley, and mint. Add half of the olive oil, half of the lemon juice, one tablespoon of pomegranate molasses, salt, black pepper, and Turkish coffee, then mix the ingredients well. · 5 min
  2. Preparing the Pot Base
    At the bottom of a suitable pot, place a tablespoon of olive oil and arrange the potato slices to form a protective layer that prevents the grape leaves from sticking. · 3 min
  3. Rolling the Grape Leaves
    Lay a grape leaf flat with the rough side facing up and the stem end toward you. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center, fold both sides inward, and roll it tightly into a neat finger shape. · 20 min
  4. Arranging the Rolls
    Arrange the stuffed grape leaves neatly and tightly in layers over the potato base until all the rolls are assembled in the pot. · 5 min
  5. Adding Broth and Weighting
    Mix a cup and a half of warm water with the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, a tablespoon of pomegranate molasses, and a pinch of salt. Pour the mixture over the grape leaves, then place a heavy, heatproof plate directly on top of the rolls to keep them compact during boiling. · 3 min
  6. Gentle Simmering
    Place the pot over medium heat until the liquid boils, then reduce the heat to very low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 60 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender. · 1 h
  7. Resting and Serving
    Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool completely while covered for at least two hours so the leaves absorb the juices and achieve a glossy color and rich flavor; then invert onto a serving platter and serve cold. · 2 h

Nutrition / serving

360
cal
4.8
protein g
48.5
carbs g
17.2
fat g

Chef's tips

The secret to successful yalangi is to never flip or serve it hot; allowing it to cool completely inside the pot prevents the leaves from darkening and ensures they absorb all the rich flavors thoroughly.