How to Make Vegetarian Turkish Stuffed Vegetables (Dolma)

Vegetarian Turkish stuffed vegetables, known as Dolma, are a delicious and wholesome dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. This traditional meal can be prepared using various vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make these delectable stuffed delights.

Ingredients

To start, gather the following ingredients:

  • 4 medium bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 2 medium eggplants
  • 1 cup of rice (preferably short-grain)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of finely chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Water or vegetable broth, for cooking

Preparation

Begin by preparing your vegetables for stuffing:

  1. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and scoop out the seeds. For zucchini and eggplant, slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to create a cavity.
  2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they are soft and fragrant.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan along with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture is well combined.
  4. Stir in the rice and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
  5. Remove from heat and fold in the fresh parsley, dill, and lemon juice.

Stuffing the Vegetables

Now that the filling is ready, it’s time to stuff the vegetables:

  1. Using a spoon, carefully fill each vegetable with the rice mixture, packing it gently but not too tightly, as the rice will expand while cooking.
  2. Place the stuffed vegetables upright in a large pot or a baking dish. If you have leftover filling, you can spread it around the veggies.

Cooking the Dolma

Next, it’s time to cook the dolma:

  1. Add water or vegetable broth to the pot, enough to cover the bottom of the dish (about 1 cup). This will help to steam the vegetables.
  2. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil to retain steam and heat.
  3. Cook on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the rice is fully cooked. You can also bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, let the Dolma cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Consider serving them with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.

Vegetarian Turkish stuffed vegetables are not only a fulfilling meal but also a fantastic dish to share with family and friends. Whether you're preparing a special dinner or a casual lunch, these dolmas will impress and satisfy!