Bukharan Jewish-style Stuffed Beef Rolls

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we replace the traditional Vietnamese flavors of Bò lá lốt with the unique spices and ingredients of Bukharan Jewish cuisine. The original dish typically uses lemongrass, fish sauce, and other Vietnamese seasonings, whereas our version incorporates Bukharan Jewish spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika. Additionally, we substitute the banana leaves used in Bò lá lốt with grape leaves, which are commonly used in Bukharan Jewish cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Bò lá lốt, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 jar of grape leaves, drained and rinsed 1 jar of grape leaves, drained and rinsed
• Olive oil, for brushing Olive oil, for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 7g, 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, black pepper, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, ginger, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), parsley, cilantro, and dill. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Take a grape leaf and place it flat on a clean surface. Spoon a small amount of the beef mixture onto the center of the leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly, similar to a burrito. Repeat this process with the remaining grape leaves and beef mixture.
3. 3.
   Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   If grilling, lightly brush the stuffed beef rolls with olive oil and place them on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the rolls are browned and cooked through.
5. 5.
   If baking, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the stuffed beef rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with olive oil and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. 6.
   Serve the Bukharan Jewish-style Stuffed Beef Rolls hot as an appetizer or main dish. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of yogurt or tahini sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Grape leaves — Make sure to rinse the grape leaves thoroughly to remove any excess brine or saltiness before using them in the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• If you can't find grape leaves, you can substitute with cabbage leaves or Swiss chard leaves.
• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice over the stuffed beef rolls before serving.
• These rolls can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. Simply reheat them in the oven or on the grill before serving.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor profile of the beef rolls to your liking.
• Serve the stuffed beef rolls with a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.

Serving advice

Serve the Bukharan Jewish-style Stuffed Beef Rolls as an appetizer or main dish. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of yogurt or tahini sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed beef rolls on a platter, neatly lined up to showcase their beautiful green color from the grape leaves. Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs over the rolls for an attractive presentation. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil for a glossy finish.