Yousef Alfakhouri’s Dolmas

For freshman Yousef Alfakhouri, being able to make dolmas is a significant part of his family’s religion and heritage and a long-lasting tradition his family has carried with them through multiple generations.

“[Dolmas have] been in my family for…a long time,” Alfakhouri said. “Everybody in my family makes this meal.”

Dolmas consist of grape leaves stuffed with rice and beef cooked in a pot, and can be served with lemon on the side. Originating in the Middle East the dish holds special significance for Alfakhouri, connecting his family to their former home in Dubai.

“It’s a recipe that my mom’s parents used to [make] and a lot of people we know [make] in the Middle East,” Alfakhouri said. “The taste is really good…it’s wrapped and hot. It doesn’t look that good, but once you taste it, you expect it to taste good and it [does].”

Alfakhouri and his family eat dolmas year-round, often making the dish during the month of Ramadan. The dish holds a special part of Alfakhouri’s identity, as his family has been making dolmas for almost 10 years. Alfakhouri said making the dish together with his family is one of his fondest childhood memories.

“When I was young, I made it for the first time with my family [which is] probably one of my best memories,” Alfakhouri said. “We just enjoy making it together.”