How To Freeze Grape Leaves (for Stuffed Grape Leaves)

 This time of year is when grape leaves are at their finest.  If they are to small, they are hard to stuff and roll. If they get to big, they get tough.  Next week is the last week before the kids get out of school for the summer, so I will make stuffed grape leaves.  My Armenian grandmother (Granny)  used the Turkish name "Sarma."  The Armenian name for them is "Dolma."

48 Grape leaves
1 part salt to 4 parts water (I used 1 cup of salt, 4 cups of water)
Ice water

• Rinse leaves well and pat dry. 
• Bring water/salt solution to a boil and blanch leaves in small batches. (I blanched 10 at a time)
• Gently push under water using a wooden spoon for 2 - 3 minutes
• Gently remove leaves, and place in ice water until completely cooled
• Use a slotted spoon and remove cooled leaves.  Place on a clean, dry towel
• Once dry, place in stacks in freezer bags of no more then 15 leaves

These will keep for up to 6 months.  To thaw, place in a colander.  Use as soon as they are defrosted.

-Queenie Cuisine

I will post the recipe and finished product on the day they are made.