Definition

Noun: 1. A dish of seasoned rice (often with additions like nuts, currants, or minced lamb) that is wrapped in a leaf (typically grape, cabbage, or chard) and then simmered or braised in a liquid stock. * This word specifically refers to the stuffed and cooked food item itself. It is a dish of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean origin.

Usage

• The word "dolmas" is typically used as a plural noun (e.g., , ), though it can sometimes be treated as a singular mass noun for the dish in general.
• It is used to describe a specific prepared food, often as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a mezze platter.

Examples

• "The dolmas at the Greek restaurant were filled with rice, pine nuts, and herbs."
• "She learned how to make dolmas using fresh grape leaves from her garden."
• "For the party, we served dolmas alongside hummus and pita bread."

Advanced Usage

• The singular form is "dolma." You might say, "I ate one delicious dolma," or "This dolma is perfectly seasoned."
• The term can be modified by the type of leaf or filling: , , .

Variants and Related Words

• Dolma (n): The singular form of "dolmas."
• Stuffed grape leaves (n phrase): A common English description for the most familiar type of dolma.
• Sarma (n): A related term used in Turkish, Balkan, and Caucasian cuisines, often referring to dolmas made with cabbage or chard leaves.

Synonyms

• Stuffed vine leaves
• Stuffed grape leaves

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning is a stuffed leaf parcel. While the reference definition specifies rice simmered in stock, the defining characteristic is the cooking method (simmering/braising) and the presentation (wrapped in a leaf). The filling, while commonly rice-based, can vary by region and recipe.

Noun

1. well-seasoned rice (with nuts or currants or minced lamb) simmered or braised in stock