Japrak: Albanian stuffed vine leaves in lemon broth

Method

1. 1

   Preparing the leaves

   Rinse the vine leaves, then blanch them briefly in hot water so they become soft, and leave them to drain.

   5 min
2. 2

   Part-cooking the rice

   Cook the rice in boiling water until it is partly softened, then drain it.

   10 min
3. 3

   Mixing the filling

   Finely chop the onion, then mix it thoroughly with the minced meat, rice, dill, salt and pepper.

   10 min
4. 4

   Rolling the parcels

   Place a little filling on a leaf, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Arrange the parcels seam-side down in the pan.

   20 min
5. 5

   Pouring over the liquid

   Cover the parcels with a plate, then pour over hot water, lemon juice and oil so the leaves are just submerged.

   5 min
6. 6

   Simmering

   Cook over a medium heat for 40 minutes, until most of the liquid has evaporated. Let it stand briefly before serving.

   40 min