Dolmadakia Stuffed Vine Leaves with Rice

Dolmadakia, or stuffed vine leaves, are probably something you’ve seen on the menu at a Greek restaurant, found in a deli, or have tried if you’ve ever visited Greece. If not - they are truly delicious Greek morsels that you must try! Dolmadakia truly are traditional, and are one of my favourite ever recipes.

Somewhat frustratingly, they’re the kind of dish that disappears even before they’ve hit the table! My youngest daughter sneaks in to steal a couple every five minutes in that danger period, when they are made but it’s not lunch time yet… but how can I blame her, when I did exactly the same at her age!

It took me a while to learn how to make them. Needs must, though, as I couldn’t find any when I lived in the Netherlands, so decided to give them a try. I discovered that all you need is a little patience; they’re not difficult or complicated to make. The taste of the vine leaf, combined with the vegetables and rice inside, a squirt of sharp lemon juice and a dip of yoghurt? Incredible.