Grapes are not so much cultivated in Kerala. But now with the climate change, it is showing encouraging results. I got a flowering Grape Vine in my front garden in Ollur, Kerala within 2 years of planting. But since Grapes need pruning for the 1st 3 years, I cut off all the leaves and the flowers. Here is a recipe I made out of the Grape leaves in Mediterranean style. The Greek Dolmade made of Grape Leaves, Basmati Rice and Minced meat was my inspiration. But I changed the recipe into a pure Veggie Italian Turkish style dish
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Preparation:
Select Grape Leaves not so tender and not so old. Boil water and dip leaves in it (Blanch) for 3-5 minutes.
I had pickled Red chilis and garlic at home. (Red long Chilis and Garlic in Vinegar, water with little salt kept for 1 month). Saute some ripened sliced tomatoes. Grind the Tomatoes and pickled Garlic and Red chilis to make a coarse paste. Chop the Grape leaves into thin strands. Mix well with the above ingredients. Add Salt to taste and generous helping of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Preparation:
Select Grape Leaves not so tender and not so old. Boil water and dip leaves in it (Blanch) for 3-5 minutes.
I had pickled Red chilis and garlic at home. (Red long Chilis and Garlic in Vinegar, water with little salt kept for 1 month). Saute some ripened sliced tomatoes. Grind the Tomatoes and pickled Garlic and Red chilis to make a coarse paste. Chop the Grape leaves into thin strands. Mix well with the above ingredients. Add Salt to taste and generous helping of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
