Stuffed grape leaves (dolma)
Rated by 11 diets
How the diets react
Diet Ratings
Dolma typically contains rice filling (15-20g net carbs per 3-4 pieces), making it problematic for strict keto. However, some versions use cauliflower rice or minimal filling. Portion control and recipe verification essential.
Lazy keto practitioners may allow small portions (1-2 pieces) as occasional treats if carbs fit daily budget, while strict keto avoids entirely due to rice content.
Traditional dolma is filled with rice, herbs, and spices—fully plant-based. However, many regional variations include ground meat or are prepared with animal-derived broths.
Some vegans avoid dolma due to frequent meat-based fillings in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern preparations, requiring careful verification of ingredients.
Traditional dolma is stuffed with rice and/or lentils, both excluded from paleo. Rice is a grain and lentils are legumes. Grape leaves themselves are acceptable, but the filling violates paleo rules.
Dolma is a traditional Mediterranean/Middle Eastern dish featuring grape leaves (plant-based), often filled with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat. Emphasizes vegetables and whole grains with minimal oil when prepared traditionally.
Grape leaves are plant material. Dolma typically contains rice, herbs, and vegetables—all excluded from carnivore diet.
Traditional dolma is stuffed with rice and/or legumes (lentils, chickpeas), both excluded on Whole30. Grape leaves themselves are compliant, but the filling violates the program.
Dolma is traditionally filled with rice, herbs, and onions. Onions are high-FODMAP and a primary ingredient. Garlic is often included as well.
Grape leaves provide fiber and are low in calories, but traditional dolma is often high in sodium from brining and salt used in preparation. Filling ingredients (rice, meat, herbs) vary. Can fit DASH if sodium is controlled and portion is moderate.
Grape leaves provide low-glycemic carbs and fiber. Filling typically contains rice (moderate glycemic impact) and sometimes meat. Oil content varies. Can work in Zone if rice portion controlled and protein adequate, but rice makes it carb-forward.
Grape leaves provide polyphenols and antioxidants. Traditional fillings with rice, herbs (mint, dill, parsley), and sometimes pine nuts align well with anti-inflammatory principles. Olive oil preparation is ideal. Low in saturated fat.
Dolma typically contains rice, herbs, and sometimes meat (8-12g protein if meat-filled, 2-4g if vegetarian). Grape leaves provide fiber and are easy to digest. Often prepared with olive oil (unsaturated fat, moderate amount). Rice base is moderate glycemic load. Portion-friendly as typically eaten in small quantities. Main drawback is moderate protein unless meat-filled.
Controversy Index
Score range: 1–8/10. Higher controversy = more disagreement between diets.