Dolma, a traditional dish originating from the Middle East, is typically prepared by stuffing grape leaves or vegetables like bell peppers or eggplants with a seasoned filling. But this recipe takes a creative twist by serving Dolma in a Bowl—an extraordinary and unique version of the classic dish that is bound to impress your family and guests. By mixing succulent minced meat with flavorful vegetables, eggs, and seasonings, then baking it all in a small bowl or ramekin, this version of dolma not only tastes delicious but also looks like a work of culinary art. Perfect for special gatherings or when you want to create something a little different yet familiar.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- Minced meat (beef or a mix of beef and lamb) – 200 g
- Bread – 50 g (soaked in water or milk)
- Onion – 100 g (finely chopped)
- Sweet bell pepper – 40 g (chopped)
- Garlic – 2 cloves (minced)
- Salt and spices (black pepper, paprika, cumin, etc.) – to taste
- Vegetable oil – 2-3 tablespoons
- Water – 30 ml (for moisture)
For the Egg Topping:
- Eggs – 4 large
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Soak the Bread: Begin by soaking the 50 g of bread in water or milk for a few minutes. Once soft, squeeze out the excess liquid and crumble the bread into a mixing bowl.
- Mix the Meat and Vegetables: In the same bowl, add the minced meat, finely chopped onion, sweet bell pepper, and minced garlic.
- Season the Filling: Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin to taste. You can adjust the spices depending on your preference for heat and flavor. Mix everything well.
- Add Moisture: To keep the filling tender and juicy, add 30 ml of water and 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Dolma
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Fill the Bowls: Take small oven-safe bowls or ramekins and lightly grease them with a bit of oil. Spoon the meat mixture into the bowls, pressing it down gently so it’s compact. Leave enough space at the top for the egg topping.
- Bake: Place the bowls on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and lightly browned on the surface.
Step 3: Add the Egg Topping
- Prepare the Eggs: After the meat has cooked, remove the bowls from the oven. Carefully crack an egg over each bowl, allowing the egg to sit on top of the cooked meat mixture.
- Return to the Oven: Place the bowls back into the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolk remains slightly runny (or fully set, depending on your preference).
- Optional Garnish: Once the dolma is finished, you can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor and a pop of color.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the Dolma in a Bowl hot, straight from the oven, accompanied by a side of yogurt or fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips
- Bread Soaking: Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the soaked bread before mixing it with the meat. This will help create the right texture in your filling.
- Add a Touch of Heat: If you prefer spicy dolma, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- Customize the Filling: This recipe can be customized with additional vegetables like grated carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Monitor the Eggs: Keep an eye on the eggs during the final baking stage. If you prefer runny yolks, reduce the baking time slightly. For fully set eggs, leave them in the oven a few minutes longer.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover dolma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bowls back in the oven at a low temperature (about 150°C / 300°F) for 10 minutes.
- Freezing: You can freeze the meat mixture before adding the eggs. Simply prepare the filling, place it in the bowls, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw the bowls overnight in the refrigerator, bake the meat, and then proceed with adding the egg topping.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Protein: 18-20 g
- Carbohydrates: 12-15 g
- Fats: 20-22 g
- Fiber: 2-3 g
- Vitamins: High in B vitamins (from meat and eggs), vitamin C (from bell peppers)
- Minerals: Good source of iron, calcium, and potassium
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat for this dish?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with lamb, turkey, or chicken if you prefer. Just be mindful that the flavor and texture may change slightly depending on the type of meat used.
2. How can I make this dish more nutritious?
You can easily add grated vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach to the meat mixture to increase the nutritional value. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free bread for added fiber.
3. Is this dish spicy?
The spice level of this dish is mild, but you can adjust it by adding more paprika, black pepper, or even a pinch of chili flakes to the meat mixture. Alternatively, leave out any spices if you prefer a milder flavor.
4. Can I make this recipe in larger portions?
Yes! This recipe can be easily scaled up to feed a larger group. Simply multiply the ingredients and use larger bowls or a baking dish instead of individual ramekins.
5. Can I substitute the eggs with something else?
If you don’t eat eggs or want to try something different, you can top the dolma with a vegan cheese or a drizzle of tahini before baking, instead of the egg topping.
Conclusion
Dolma in a Bowl is a unique twist on the classic dolma recipe, combining the same traditional flavors with a more modern and creative presentation. It’s easy to prepare, visually impressive, and packed with nutrients from the vegetables and meat. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Serve it with a side of fresh salad, yogurt, or rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy this culinary masterpiece!