Vegetarian stuffed grape leaves are considered one of the most famous dishes in Arabic cuisine, known for their high nutritional value and delicious taste. This dish contains a range of important vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and magnesium, as well as dietary fiber that promotes digestive health. It is also low in calories, making it a healthy option for plant-based food lovers. However, it should be consumed with caution if large amounts of oil or salt are used during preparation, as this can increase fat or sodium levels. This dish is known for its ability to provide energy to the body and boost immunity when eaten in moderation and in a healthy way.
Ingredients:
- Half a cup of olive oil
- 500 grams of grape leaves
- 1 and a half cups of brown rice
- 1 bunch of finely chopped parsley
- A quarter teaspoon of salt
- Half a teaspoon of cumin
- A tablespoon of mixed spices
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 2 crushed tomatoes
- 2 sliced potatoes
- 1 lemon, squeezed

Preparation Method:
Preparing the Grape Leaves:
- If you have canned grape leaves, they are ready and boiled. However, if you have fresh grape leaves, first cut off the stems and boil them in hot water for about two minutes to avoid them breaking, then rinse them thoroughly with cold water.
Preparing the Filling:
- Mix the soaked rice with parsley, tomato juice, and onion. Then, add the oil, lemon juice, salt, cumin, and mixed spices.
Rolling the Grape Leaves:
- Using the prepared filling, roll the grape leaves into small finger shapes.
Arranging the Grape Leaves in the Pot:
- Place the stuffed grape leaves in the cooking pot, ensuring to layer slices of potatoes and tomatoes at the bottom. Arrange the stuffed grape leaves in layers, as the potatoes help protect the bottom layer of grape leaves from cooking faster than the upper layers.
Cooking:
- Cover the pot with a lid and place it over high heat until the broth boils, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes until the stuffed grape leaves are cooked.
Serving:
- After cooking, flip the pot onto a serving dish and garnish with lemon slices. Serve hot.
Suggested Additions:
- You can add chopped mint to the filling for a refreshing flavor.
- Adding toasted pine nuts to the filling can increase the dish's nutritional value and provide a delightful crunch.
- The stuffed grape leaves can be served with tahini sauce as a side.
Note: Please be aware that this dish may contain high amounts of oil and salt, so it is recommended to consume it in moderation, especially for those with health issues like high blood pressure or cholesterol.

Nutritional Values and Caloric Information:
Olive Oil (½ cup):
- Calories: Approximately 960 kcal
- Fat: 108 grams
Grape Leaves (about 500 grams):
- Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
Brown Rice (1 ½ cups):
- Calories: Approximately 330 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 70 grams
- Protein: 7 grams
Chopped Parsley (1 bunch):
- Calories: Approximately 10 kcal
- Protein: 1 gram
Salt (¼ teaspoon):
- Calories: Not considered
Cumin (½ teaspoon):
- Calories: Not considered
Mixed Spices (1 teaspoon):
- Calories: Not considered
Chopped Onion (1 onion):
- Calories: Approximately 45 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Protein: 1 gram
Crushed Tomatoes (2 tomatoes):
- Calories: Approximately 40 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 9 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
Sliced Potatoes (2 potatoes):
- Calories: Approximately 160 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 36 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
Lemon Juice (1 lemon):
- Calories: Approximately 20 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 7 grams
Total Approximate Calories for the Whole Recipe:
- Approximately 1745 kcal for the entire recipe.
Note: The nutritional values here are based on approximate estimates and may vary slightly depending on the brand and quantities used.