Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab / Dawali) with Raisins and Pomegranate Molasses

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab / Dawali) with Raisins and Pomegranate Molasses

With the arrival of spring, grape leaves begin to fill the markets, and demand for this much-loved dish rises. Known as Warak Enab in Arabic—or Dawali in some regions—these stuffed grape leaves are famous for their unforgettable flavor and rich aroma.

This variation combines rice, minced meat, raisins, walnuts, and pomegranate molasses for a sweet-and-sour twist that balances beautifully with the tender grape leaves.


Ingredients

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab / Dawali) with Raisins and Pomegranate Molasses

 

  • Fresh grape leaves

  • Pomegranate molasses

  • Raisins

  • Minced meat

  • Rice

  • Ground cinnamon

  • Tarragon (or fresh herbs as a substitute)

  • Walnuts (chopped)

  • Lemon juice

  • Chicken broth

  • Tomato paste

  • Water


Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Leaves

  • Bring a pot of water to a boil.

  • Blanch the grape leaves briefly by dipping them into the boiling water, then immediately transfer them into cold water to stop the cooking. Drain well.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  • Cook the rice in hot water until partially done, then drain and set aside.

  • In a skillet, melt a little butter. Add the minced meat and sauté for about 10 minutes.

  • Stir in cinnamon, tarragon, raisins, pomegranate molasses, and chopped walnuts. Cook for another 5 minutes.

  • Mix in the rice. This creates the stuffing for the grape leaves.

Step 3: Stuff and Roll

  • Lay each grape leaf flat, shiny side down. Place a spoonful of filling in the center.

  • Fold in the sides and roll tightly into a cylinder.

  • Arrange the stuffed leaves neatly in a pot, placing them close together so they hold their shape.

Step 4: Cook the Dawali

  • Add chicken broth, tomato paste, water, and lemon juice over the rolled leaves.

  • Place a heavy plate on top of the rolls to keep them from opening while cooking.

  • Simmer gently until the leaves become tender. Add more water if needed during cooking.

Step 5: Serve

  • Transfer the stuffed grape leaves onto a serving platter.

  • Serve the broth in a separate dish.


Nutritional Value

Every 300 g serving contains approximately:

  • 728 calories

  • 36 g protein

  • 34 g fat

  • 88 g carbohydrates


Tender grape leaves, sweet raisins, tangy pomegranate molasses, and hearty minced meat come together in this classic Middle Eastern dish. A perfect balance of flavors for a nourishing and unforgettable meal.

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