Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad

Tomato Rose Stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad Recipe from Cameroon and Zambia

Region / culture: Cameroon, Zambia | Servings: 8

Introduction

This unique and flavorful recipe for Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The presentation of the tomato roses on a bed of lettuce cups makes for a visually stunning dish that is sure to impress your guests.

History

The origins of this recipe are unclear, but it is likely inspired by traditional stuffed tomato recipes that have been enjoyed for generations. The addition of chicken and pineapple adds a modern twist to this classic dish, creating a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Ingredients

8 tomatoes, washed and stems removed
2 cups cooked chicken, diced into 0.5-inch pieces
1 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained
0.5 cup mayonnaise
0.5 tsp curry powder
2 tbsp finely chopped crystallized ginger

How to prepare

Combine all ingredients except for a few tablespoons of ginger mayonnaise with chicken and pineapple. Chill.
Cut 1 to 2 heads of lettuce and shape them into eight uniform cups on dinner plates.
Remove the stems from 8 tomatoes.
Make six even cuts from the blossom end of each tomato, going three-quarters of the way through. Do not cut all the way through.
Open up the tomato cuts to form a rose shape.
Place a tomato rose in the center of each lettuce cup.
Fill the tomatoes with the mixture (use a scoop if available) and place 1 tsp of ginger mayonnaise on top of the mixture.
Garnish each tomato with 1 black olive and 1 or 2 sprigs of watercress or parsley.
Arrange 6 to 8 plantain chips on the side of each plate.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra pineapple or tofu for protein.
Add chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch and texture.
Experiment with different seasonings or herbs to customize the flavor profile of the salad.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chill the chicken and pineapple mixture before filling the tomatoes to ensure that the flavors have time to meld together.

- Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the tomatoes into rose shapes, being careful not to cut all the way through.

- Garnish each tomato with a black olive and watercress or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad can be served as a light lunch or dinner, accompanied by a side of plantain chips or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for this recipe include chopping, mixing, and assembling the ingredients to create the stuffed tomato roses.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.

- Use turkey or shrimp instead of chicken for a different protein option.

- Fresh ginger can be used instead of crystallized ginger for a more intense flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken and pineapple mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the salad. The tomato roses can also be prepped ahead of time and filled just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the tomato roses on a platter with a bed of lettuce and garnish with additional herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine or a fruity iced tea for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salad in the microwave or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this salad provides approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad is a delightful and unique dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a light and refreshing meal. The combination of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy ginger mayonnaise creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to please your taste buds. Enjoy this salad as a main course or as a side dish for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. I had never heard of a Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad before, let alone tasted one. It was a dish unlike anything I had ever seen, and I was determined to learn how to make it.

I first came across the recipe for Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad when I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. Mrs. Jenkins was a wonderful cook, and I always enjoyed trying new dishes at her house. One day, as we sat in her kitchen sipping tea, she pulled out a tattered old cookbook and began flipping through the pages.

"Ah, here it is! Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad," she exclaimed, pointing to a faded recipe. "This is one of my favorite dishes to make. Would you like to try it?"

I nodded eagerly, my curiosity piqued. Mrs. Jenkins walked me through the recipe, explaining each step in detail. It was a complex dish, requiring a lot of time and effort, but she assured me that the end result was well worth it.

As I watched Mrs. Jenkins work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill. She moved with such grace and precision, chopping, sautéing, and mixing with ease. I knew then that I wanted to be able to cook like her someday.

After several hours of hard work, the Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad was finally ready. Mrs. Jenkins carefully arranged the dish on a platter, the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and pineapple contrasting beautifully with the tender chicken. I took my first bite, and my taste buds were overwhelmed with a burst of flavors – sweet, tangy, and savory all at once.

I was hooked. From that day on, I made it my mission to master the art of making Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad. I practiced tirelessly in my own kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques until I was able to recreate Mrs. Jenkins' masterpiece.

Over the years, I honed my skills and perfected the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I shared it with friends and family, who were all amazed by the dish's unique combination of flavors and textures. It became a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties, always eliciting compliments and requests for the recipe.

As I grew older, I realized that my love for cooking had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. She had been the one to teach me the basics of cooking, instilling in me a passion for good food and the joy of sharing it with others. I remembered the hours we spent together in the kitchen, her gentle guidance and encouraging words as I clumsily attempted to chop, stir, and fry.

I often think of her as I prepare meals in my own kitchen, drawing inspiration from her traditional recipes and adding my own modern twist. I like to imagine that she would be proud of the cook I have become, capable of creating dishes as intricate and delicious as the Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad.

So, whenever I make this dish, I do so with a sense of reverence and gratitude for all the wonderful cooks who have come before me – Mrs. Jenkins, my grandmother, and countless others who have shared their knowledge and passion for good food. And as I watch my own grandchildren marvel at the sight of a Tomato Rose stuffed with Chicken and Pineapple Salad, I can only hope that they too will be inspired to continue the culinary legacy that has been passed down through generations.