Recipe courtesy of David Spooner

Napa Valley Stuffed Grape Leaves with Six Pepper SPAM(r), Fruit Relish and Pine Nuts

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  • Level: Intermediate
  • Total: 1 hr 25 min
  • Prep: 1 hr
  • Cook: 25 min
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Fruit Relish:

Directions

  1. Place the SPAM(r) in a meat grinder, and grind until it reaches the consistency of ground sausage.
  2. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the meat and the Six Pepper Spice to the skillet, and cook until desired degree of doneness. Add more pepper, as desired. Remove from heat.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the meat with the cooled Fruit Relish. Add the pine nuts, and stir until just combined.
  4. Spread 1 grape leaf out on flat surface, vein side up. Place about 1/4 cup meat mixture on each leaf, and roll it up like a small burrito or a 3-inch cigar. Repeat with remaining grape leaves.
  5. Place the stuffed grape leaves in a steamer, and steam for 3 to 5 minutes, or until completely heated through.
  6. Meanwhile, add the yogurt, strawberries, figs, and honey to a blender or food processor. Blend until combined, adding more honey to taste, as desired. Set aside.
  7. Serve the steamed grapes leaves with the yogurt dipping sauce, if desired.

Fruit Relish:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a small non-reactive saucepan. Add 1/4 cup water, and cook over medium heat until fruit softens. Taste for seasoning, and add more vinegar, sugar, or water, as necessary. The relish should be dry. Remove from heat and let cool.