Rare Food & Dessert! Dolma Stuffed Basil with Chicken! Pistachio Baklava

ground meat

🥗Healthier: lean turkey

💰Cheaper: ground chicken

Turkey reduces fat content while chicken is often less expensive.

pine nuts

🥗Healthier: sunflower seeds

💰Cheaper: chopped walnuts

Sunflower seeds provide similar crunch with lower cost.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil offers health benefits while canola is budget-friendly.

fresh herbs

🥗Healthier: dried herbs

💰Cheaper: no herbs

Dried herbs are more accessible and have a longer shelf life.

Prepare the rice by rinsing it under cold water until clear.

Cook the rice in a pot with water until tender, about 15 minutes.

Sauté chopped onion in 2 tablespoons olive oil until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add 1 lb minced chicken to the onions and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.

Stir in diced tomato, bell pepper, and minced garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes.

Add cooked rice, chopped parsley, mint, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt to the mixture; combine well.

Allow the filling to cool slightly before using.

Take a green basil leaf, place a spoonful of filling at the base, and roll tightly, tucking in the sides.

Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Place stuffed basil in a pot, drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, and add 2 tablespoons lemon juice.

Cover with water, bring to a simmer, and cook for 20-25 minutes until tender.

Serve warm as a main dish or appetizer.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary