Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes

Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Moldova

Region / culture: Moldova | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 5 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes are a delicious and savory dish that combines the freshness of tomatoes with the rich and creamy flavor of cheese. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

This recipe has its origins in Moldova, a small country in Eastern Europe known for its rich culinary traditions. Moldovan cuisine is heavily influenced by its neighbors, including Romania, Ukraine, and Russia. Cheese-stuffed tomatoes are a popular dish in Moldova, often served as an appetizer or side dish at family gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (250 g) cow cheese
0.5 lb (250 g) feta cheese
4 oz (100 g) butter
1 clove minced garlic
3 tbsp minced dill
5 or more big tomatoes
salt

How to prepare

Drain the cheese thoroughly and combine it with the butter, garlic, and salt.
Select firm and round tomatoes, make a cut on the top, and remove the seeds and inner part.
Stuff the tomatoes with the cheese mixture, then sprinkle dill on top.
Place in the refrigerator to chill.

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
Substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or ricotta for a different taste.
Top the stuffed tomatoes with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the cheese thoroughly before combining it with the other ingredients to prevent the mixture from becoming too watery.

- Select firm and ripe tomatoes for the best results. Overripe tomatoes may become too mushy when stuffed.

- Chilling the stuffed tomatoes in the refrigerator before serving helps to enhance the flavors and textures of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light lunch with a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the stuffed tomatoes in the oven helps to soften the tomatoes and melt the cheese filling.

- Chilling the stuffed tomatoes in the refrigerator before serving helps to enhance the flavors and textures of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of firm cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella in place of cow cheese.

- Substitute the butter with olive oil for a healthier alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese mixture and stuff the tomatoes ahead of time. Keep them in the refrigerator until ready to bake and serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stuffed tomatoes with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing cucumber mint cooler.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and butter) and may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes are a rich and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your meal.

Summary

Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of ripe tomatoes and creamy cheese. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer meal. Enjoy the rich and savory taste of Moldovan cuisine with this flavorful dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl living in a small village in Moldova. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious cooking, had invited me to help her in the kitchen one day. As she showed me how to prepare the tomatoes, I was fascinated by the combination of ingredients and flavors.

My grandmother explained that this recipe had been passed down through generations in our family. She had learned it from her own mother, who in turn had learned it from her mother before her. The key to making the dish perfectly, she said, was to use the freshest tomatoes and the highest quality cheese.

The process of making Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes was a labor of love. First, we carefully hollowed out the tomatoes and filled them with a mixture of grated cheese, herbs, and spices. Then, we baked them in the oven until the cheese was melted and bubbly, and the tomatoes were tender.

The aroma that filled the kitchen as the tomatoes cooked was heavenly. The combination of the sweet, juicy tomatoes and the rich, tangy cheese was simply divine. My grandmother always said that the secret ingredient in the recipe was the love and care that went into making it.

Over the years, I have made Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes countless times. Each time, I think of my grandmother and the memories we shared in the kitchen. I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different cheeses and herbs to create new and exciting variations.

One day, while visiting a friend in a neighboring village, I decided to share my recipe for Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes. My friend, who was an excellent cook herself, was intrigued by the dish and asked me to show her how to make it. As we worked together in her kitchen, I realized that this recipe was not just a family tradition, but a part of our cultural heritage.

As word spread about my Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes, more and more people began asking me for the recipe. I was happy to share it with anyone who showed an interest, knowing that it would bring joy and satisfaction to their meals.

Years passed, and I continued to make Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes for my family and friends. It became a staple at our gatherings, a dish that everyone looked forward to and savored. I was proud to carry on the tradition that my grandmother had passed down to me, and to share it with others who appreciated the art of good cooking.

Today, as I sit in my kitchen preparing a batch of Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that has brought so much joy and connection to my life. I know that as long as I continue to make this dish with love and care, it will always be a part of who I am and where I come from. And I hope that one day, my own grandchildren will learn to make Moldovan Cheese-stuffed Tomatoes and pass the recipe down to future generations, just as I have done.