Pileški Sarmichki
Chicken Stuffed Grape Leaves
Tender chicken and rice are seasoned with herbs and spices, then carefully wrapped in brined grape leaves for a flavorful and comforting Bulgarian delicacy.
🧂 Ingredients
- 30-40 leaves Grape leaves(brined, rinsed and stems removed)
- 500 g Chicken breast(finely minced or ground)
- 150 g Rice(short-grain, rinsed)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup Fresh dill(chopped)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 cups Water or chicken broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- for serving Optional: Yogurt or sour cream
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the minced chicken, rinsed rice, chopped onion, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- 2
Lay a grape leaf flat with the rough side up. Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken and rice mixture near the stem end.
- 3
Fold the sides of the grape leaf inward over the filling, then roll tightly from the stem end towards the tip to form a neat parcel.
- 4
Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling. Arrange the stuffed grape leaves snugly in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, seam-side down, in a single layer if possible.
- 5
Pour the vegetable oil and water or chicken broth over the stuffed grape leaves. If needed, place a heatproof plate on top to keep them submerged and prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
- 6
Bring the liquid to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- 7
Let the Sarmichki rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure grape leaves are well-rinsed if using brined ones to remove excess salt.
- ✓Don't overfill the grape leaves, as the rice will expand during cooking.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use chicken broth instead of water.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of allspice or mint to the filling for a different flavor profile.
- Some variations include a small amount of finely chopped tomato in the filling.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with finely chopped mushrooms and more vegetables.