Grape Leaves

Instructions

1. 1

   Pick grape leaves when young, tender and light green.

2. 2

   Cut off stems and wash in cold water.

3. 3

   Bring water to a boil in a 6-quart or larger pot.

4. 4

   Drop in 10 to 12 grape leaves at a time for 30 seconds.

5. 5

   Lift grapes leaves out and plunge into cold water.

6. 6

   Pat leaves dry with paper towels.

7. 7

   Stack leaves in piles of 6 and roll up loosely from the long side.

8. 8

   Tie each roll with string.

9. 9

   Continue this process until all leaves are cooked and rolled up.

10. 10

    Pack rolls of leaves in clean, hot pint or quart jars.

11. 11

    About 6 rolls will fit into a quart jar.

12. 12

    Bring salt and 1 quart water to a boil; boil 5 minutes.

13. 13

    Pack rolls of leaves vertically into 3 quart jars, bending them gently to fit below the shoulders of the jars.

14. 14

    Cover with hot brine, leaving 1/2-inch headspace; seal.

15. 15

    Process in boiling water bath 15 minutes.

16. 16

    Yields 3 quarts.

17. 17

    To use, untie the rolls and rinse in cold water.

18. 18

    Use in any recipe calling for grape leaves.

19. 19

    Refrigerate after opening.