Dolma
A savory Middle Eastern dish featuring stuffed squash, peppers, and tomatoes filled with seasoned ground meats and rice, perfect for family dinners and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the ground lamb, ground beef, canned tomatoes plus juice, tomato sauce, chopped green pepper, crushed garlic, salt, pepper, rice, lemon juice, and water.
- Stuff the mixture into the squash, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
- Arrange the stuffed vegetables in a pan and add water to cover the top of the dolmas.
- Add salt and the juice of one lemon to the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 45 minutes to one hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on traditional dolma, consider adding a handful of fresh herbs like dill or mint to the filling for enhanced flavor. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adjust the rice quantity based on your preference for stuffing density. If you prefer more acidity, increase the lemon juice slightly. Serve with a side of yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Dolma pairs beautifully with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can serve them alongside Mediterranean recipes like Chick Pea Soup or a citrusy quinoa salad. A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors well, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dolmas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan with a splash of water to prevent drying out, cover, and warm over low heat until heated through. They can also be microwaved for a quick meal, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dolma contains roughly 364 calories, with 16g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (38% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2081mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make dolmas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dolmas a day in advance. After stuffing the vegetables, cover and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly if they are chilled.
What vegetables can I use for stuffing?
While squash, bell peppers, and tomatoes are traditional choices, you can get creative with other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. Just ensure the vegetables are sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart during cooking.
Is it possible to make dolmas vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a combination of grains and nuts. Using rice and plenty of spices will still give you a flavorful dish, perfect for those who prefer plant-based meals.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).