Iraqi dolma

Iraq · Middle East and North Africa

Short description: This preparation turns stuffed vegetables and leaves into a shared platter with a distinctly tart, savory sauce.
Ingredients: Grape leaves, eggplant, zucchini, and onion stuffed with rice, ground lamb or beef, tomato paste, tamarind or lemon, parsley, and spices.
Cultural note: The mix of leaves, hollowed vegetables, rice, and meat makes the pot a communal centerpiece rather than a single small appetizer.
Common misconception: It is not limited to grape leaves; the platter often includes several stuffed vegetables.

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