Tolma

Tolma: Stuffed Grape Leaves

Tolma is a classic Georgian dish that consists of stuffed grape leaves. This delicacy is popular not only in Georgia but also in many other Middle Eastern countries. Tolma stands out for its rich taste and aroma, thanks to the use of various spices and fresh herbs.

Try to prepare the traditional Georgian dish Tolma using our detailed recipe and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dish.

Tolma Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 200 g grape leaves (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup rice
• 300 g beef (or lamb), finely chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon
• 2 cups water

Cooking Steps:

1. Preparing the filling:

   • In a large bowl, mix together rice, meat, onion, garlic, mint, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
   • Rinse the grape leaves and pat them dry.
   • Place a grape leaf on a flat surface, place a small amount of filling (about 1 teaspoon) on it, and roll the leaf carefully, starting from the wide end, to form a roll. Repeat with the remaining leaves.

2. Cooking Tolma:

   • Arrange the Tolma in a large pot in a single layer.
   • Sprinkle Tolma with salt and pepper, and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over them.
   • Pour water over Tolma, covering them completely.
   • Place the pot over medium heat, bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 45-60 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the leaves are tender.

3. Serving:

   • Serve Tolma hot or cold, drizzled with lemon juice. You can garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Tips and Recommendations:

• Choosing grape leaves: If using canned grape leaves, be sure to rinse them before use to remove any saltiness.
• Using different meat fillings: You can experiment with the filling, using not only beef or lamb but also chicken or turkey.
• Combining spices: For a richer flavor, add ground coriander, cumin, or red pepper to the filling.
• Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle Tolma with finely chopped green onions or cilantro.

In Conclusion:

Tolma is not only a delicious dish but also a true culinary art that will appeal to all lovers of Georgian cuisine. By following our recipe and tips, you can prepare aromatic and juicy stuffed grape leaves that will be a great addition to your table and bring lots of positive emotions to you and your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!