Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 large tomatoes
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Special equipment needed:
- A baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the tomatoes and scoop out the pulp and seeds with a spoon. Reserve the pulp and chop it finely.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until soft and fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
5. Add the chopped tomato pulp, cooked rice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture is heated through.
6. Stuff the tomato shells with the beef and rice mixture and place them in a baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the stuffed tomatoes.
8. Bake the tomatoes for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tomatoes are tender.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- Rice can be substituted with quinoa or couscous.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with feta or goat cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef and rice mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the dish.
Tips and tricks:
- Choose ripe and firm tomatoes for the best results.
- Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the tomato pulp and seeds without damaging the tomato shells.
- Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the beef and rice mixture before stuffing the tomatoes.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the stuffed tomatoes in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the stuffed tomatoes on a bed of fresh greens for a colorful and nutritious meal.
Garnishes:
- Garnish the stuffed tomatoes with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
Pairings:
- Serve the stuffed tomatoes with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Grilled corn on the cob
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the tomatoes are not cooking evenly, cover the baking dish with foil to prevent the tops from burning.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Stuffed tomatoes have been a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- The beef and rice mixture is savory and flavorful, while the tomatoes add a sweet and tangy note to the dish.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the stuffed tomatoes as a main dish for a family dinner or a special occasion.
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