Vegetarian Grape Leaves

Submitted by: Kellee

Ingredients:
1 jar of grape leaves, drained & rinsed
1 ½ cups whole grain white rice, washed
1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ cup mint leaves
4 cups small tomatoes, chopped & drained
1 onion, minced
2 fresh lemons
1 can chick peas, chopped

Directions:

Wash and drain rice. Mix rice, parsley, mint, tomatoes, onion, juice of 1 lemon, and chick peas. Place about 1 tablespoon of rice mixture on the veined side of each grape leaf. Fold in the sides and roll into a cigar shape.

Prepare a large pot by placing an inverted plate at the bottom; this protects the grape leaves from direct heat when steaming. Place grape leaves evenly in rows & layers, crisscrossing each layer. Add just enough warm water to cover the first layer of grape leaves. Add the juice of 1 lemon to the water. Bring to boil, then reduce to low heat and cook for about 30 minutes. Check water level often and add more as necessary.

Serve with pita bread, plain yogurt, and sweet onion.