Egyptian Stuffed Grape Leaves (warak Enab Mahshi)

Ingredients

• 1 jar grape leaves in brine
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 medium onion
• ¼ cup parsley
• ¼ cup dill
• ¼ cup mint
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander

Steps

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Blanch the grape leaves by adding them to the boiling water for about 1–2 minutes.
3. This will soften the leaves and make them more pliable.
4. Drain the leaves.
5. Set aside.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine the long-grain rice, finely chopped onion, fresh parsley, fresh dill, fresh mint, olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and pepper.
7. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
8. Place a grape leaf on a clean surface, shiny side down.
9. Trim the stem if necessary.
10. Take about a tablespoon of the rice mixture.
11. Place it in the center of the leaf.
12. Fold the sides of the leaf inward.
13. Roll it tightly, similar to rolling a burrito or spring roll.
14. Repeat the process with the remaining grape leaves and rice mixture until all the filling is used.
15. Line the bottom of a large pot with a few grape leaves to prevent the stuffed grape leaves from sticking.
16. Arrange the stuffed grape leaves in layers in the pot, placing them closely together.
17. This will help them hold their shape during cooking.
18. Add enough water to the pot to cover the stuffed grape leaves.
19. Place a heatproof plate or lid on top of the stuffed grape leaves to keep them pressed down while cooking.
20. Cover the pot with a lid.
21. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
22. Cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the rice is fully cooked and the grape leaves are tender.
23. Once cooked, carefully remove the stuffed grape leaves from the pot.
24. Transfer them to a serving dish.
25. Serve the stuffed grape leaves warm or at room temperature, as an appetizer or part of a larger meal.
26. They can be enjoyed on their own or accompanied by yogurt or a tangy dipping sauce.