I had no clue about the taste of Turnip greens when Mr.Health nut first bought them.I read these can be bitter.Meedo's Stuffed Grape leaves(ever so popular Middle Eastern appetizer) was in my mind for so long,the turnip greens turned out to be a good substitute for the grape leaves.
These bundles of healthy greens were pleasantly bitter.Makes a perfect start of a meal and so good for snacking.The flavors of spices and vegetables dominate over the mild bitterness of the greens.One can also use other large leafy greens like chard or collard.
Recipe : Stuffed Turnip Greens adapted from Arabic Bites - Stuffed Grape Leaves
Ingredients
12-14 medium Turnip greens(could also use collard or chard)
2 tablespoon fresh lime juice
pinch of salt.
1 Tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil.
1 cup hot water
For Filling:
2 cups brown or white rice or bulgur wheat,cooked
2 teaspoons dried or fresh mint,chopped.
2 teaspoons dried or fresh parsley,chopped.
1 teaspoon spice mix(I used ground cumin,coriander,cinnamon and cloves)
1/4 teaspoon hot chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoon fresh lime juice
2 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup tomatoes,finely chopped
1/2 cup vegetables like grated carrots or green onions or broccoli,finely chopped.
Method
Wilt the greens in boiling water for a minute.Drain and drop in cold water to stop any further cooking.Drain all the water.
Mix all the filling ingredients.Place about a tablespoon of filling on each
leaf,roll up firmly,folding in sides to enclose filling.
Lay the rolled leaves on a baking pan or a heavy pan.Pour over combined lemon juice,oil,salt and hot water.
Bake at 350 F oven for 10-15 minutes or Simmer,covered,over low heat about 15-20 minutes.
Serve warm with spicy tomato sauce.
Health nut Challenge 4 : Bitter Better Health.Please send your entries before March 10th.Thank you.
