Recipe Introduction:
Stuffed tomatoes are a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a light meal or a side dish. The combination of tender, roasted tomatoes with a savory rice filling creates a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. This dish is a great way to use fresh, juicy tomatoes and is easily customizable with your favorite herbs and spices. It’s a perfect option for both vegetarians and meat lovers!
Ingredients:
- 6 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or any variety of your choice)
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (green or red)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked ground meat (beef, lamb, or turkey, optional for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (mint, parsley, or basil)
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
Instructions:
- Prepare the tomatoes: Slice the tops off the tomatoes and carefully scoop out the pulp and seeds using a spoon, creating a hollow space for the filling. Reserve the tomato pulp for later use in the sauce. Place the hollowed-out tomatoes in a baking dish.
- Make the filling: In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the cooked rice, ground meat (if using), pine nuts, and reserved tomato pulp. Stir well and season with oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Stuff the tomatoes: Spoon the rice mixture into the hollowed tomatoes, packing it in gently.
- Bake: Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the bottom of the baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the stuffed tomatoes and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly wrinkled.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or basil. Serve the stuffed tomatoes warm, and enjoy!
These stuffed tomatoes make a perfect, healthy dish that can be served on its own or with a side salad for a complete meal.