Checking Grape Leaves for Insects
Question
How should I clean grape leaves from insects for cooking? Is it possible to buy leaves that are already insect-free?
Answer
To clean grape leaves thoroughly, scrub them on both sides with a cloth using soapy water, then rinse them under running tap water. Finally, inspect the leaves against the light to ensure there are no leaf miners. If there are any such marks, cut them off. Then they can be cooked and eaten. I am not aware of any grape leaves that require no inspection at all.
Follow-up question:
Question
Hello Rabbi,
I saw on your website that cleaning grape leaves involves scrubbing them thoroughly on both sides under a strong stream of water and checking them against the light. However, the Kosharot website says that one needs to be an expert with several months of training to check these leaves. Even then, it says that it is necessary to soak the leaves in soapy water three times. What is the correct way to clean grape leaves that were canned? Is it possible for ordinary people to clean them? Can vegetable and fruit soap be used?
Answer
Rabbi Yehuda Halevi Amichay | 24 Sivan 5780
The leaves in the cans are generally not infested, or only minimally so. Anyone can scrub the leaf very well with soap and a cloth; you can use dish soap or vegetable and fruit soap to this end. If there are marks on the leaves, cut them off and discard the problematic area.