Stuffed grape leaves are a popular treat in Greece and throughout the Middle East. Many people like to grow their own grape vines and harvest their own fresh leaves. Unfortunately, this may not be possible year-round depending upon the climate where you live. Many gardeners harvest grape leaves to freeze so that they can enjoy this fresh garden taste even in the winter.
Instructions
1. Rinse the grape leaves in cool water.
2. Bring 4 cups of water and 1 cup of salt to a boil.
3. Drop the grape leaves into the boiling brine to blanch them. You should blanch no more than 10 to 12 leaves at a time.
4. Blanch the leaves for two to three minutes. Then, remove them from the boiling brine, and immediately place them in cold water.
5. Drain the leaves, and pat them dry with a paper towel. Make sure the leaves are completely dry before proceeding.
6. Lay the leaves flat, and stack them in freezer bags. If you prefer, you can also roll several leaves together and place several bundles in a freezer bag.
7. Seal the freezer bags after removing as much air as possible from them.
8. Place the sealed grape leaves in the freezer, and store for up to six months.
Tags: grape leaves, boiling brine, freezer bags