Tomatoes filled with Meat

Tomatoes filled with Meat Recipe from Macedonia - Ingredients: Veal, Tomatoes, Onion, Eggs, Spices, Rice, Parsley, Oil

Region / culture: Macedonia | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomatoes filled with meat is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the juicy sweetness of tomatoes with savory minced meat and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it is both flavorful and visually appealing.

History

The origins of tomatoes filled with meat can be traced back to Mediterranean cuisine, where tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many dishes. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to it. Today, it is enjoyed all over the world for its delicious taste and simple preparation.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Wash the tomato and carefully remove the top of each tomato using a knife.
Also, remove the core of the tomato and allow it to dry.
Meanwhile, mince the veal. Fry the chopped onion and add the minced meat, salt, and pepper.
Once the meat is fried, add chopped parsley, beaten eggs, and cooked rice.
Fill each tomato with this mixture and place them in a saucepan. Bake for approximately 25 minutes.
Serve on top of cooked rice on a plate with tomato juice or ketchup.

Variations

You can substitute the veal with ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a different flavor.
Add some grated cheese on top of the filled tomatoes before baking for a cheesy twist.
Mix in some cooked vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the filling for added texture and nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Choose ripe and firm tomatoes for this recipe, as they will hold their shape better when baked.

- Make sure to remove the core of the tomato carefully to create a hollow cavity for the filling.

- Be creative with the spices and seasonings you use in the filling, such as paprika, cumin, or oregano, to add depth of flavor.

- Serve the tomatoes with a side of cooked rice or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tomatoes filled with meat on a bed of cooked rice or with a side of fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also drizzle some tomato juice or ketchup on top for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to cook the meat filling thoroughly before stuffing the tomatoes to ensure it is safe to eat.

- Bake the tomatoes in a preheated oven at 180°C for approximately 25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have veal, you can use any other ground meat of your choice, such as beef, turkey, or chicken.

- Feel free to customize the spices and seasonings in the filling to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the tomatoes in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply fill the tomatoes and bake them as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the filled tomatoes on a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. You can also serve them in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomatoes filled with meat pairs well with a light and refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. You can also serve it with a glass of sparkling water or lemonade for a non-alcoholic option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of tomatoes filled with meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the tomatoes in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of tomatoes filled with meat contains around 350 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of tomatoes filled with meat contains approximately 20g of carbohydrates, mainly from the rice used in the filling. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in fat, with each serving containing around 10g of fat. The fat comes from the cooking oil used to fry the meat and onions. It is important to use a healthy cooking oil, such as olive oil, to keep the dish nutritious.

Proteins

Tomatoes filled with meat is a good source of protein, with each serving providing approximately 30g of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making this dish a great option for a protein-rich meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the tomatoes and parsley. Tomatoes are also a good source of vitamin A and potassium, while parsley is high in vitamin K and iron. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and meat, which are common allergens for some individuals. If you have allergies to these ingredients, it is important to substitute them with suitable alternatives or omit them altogether.

Summary

Overall, tomatoes filled with meat is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Tomatoes filled with meat is a classic dish that is both delicious and nutritious. With a flavorful meat filling and juicy tomatoes, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with a side of rice or salad for a complete meal that is both satisfying and wholesome.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a wonderful cook, and I always admired her skills in the kitchen. That day, she was busy preparing a dish that I had never seen before - tomatoes filled with meat.

As I watched her work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but ask her about the recipe. Maria smiled and told me that it was a traditional dish from her hometown in Italy. She explained that it was a simple yet delicious dish that was perfect for using up leftover meat and vegetables.

Maria graciously offered to teach me how to make the dish, and I eagerly accepted. We spent the afternoon working together in the kitchen, chopping vegetables, browning meat, and hollowing out tomatoes. Maria's hands moved with such grace and expertise, and I soaked up every bit of knowledge she shared with me.

As the tomatoes filled with the savory meat mixture baked in the oven, the aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely heavenly. I couldn't wait to dig into the dish and taste the fruits of our labor.

When the timer finally dinged, we carefully removed the tomatoes from the oven and plated them up. Maria insisted that we sit down at the table and enjoy the dish together. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a place of pure culinary bliss. The flavors melded together perfectly, and I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Maria's tomatoes filled with meat countless times. I have adapted the recipe to suit my own tastes, adding different herbs and spices to the meat mixture and experimenting with different types of meat. Each time I make the dish, I am reminded of that special day in Maria's kitchen and the bond we shared over our love of cooking.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has become a beloved dish in my own home. My grandchildren especially love when I make it for them, and they always ask for seconds.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that day in Maria's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the knowledge and skills she passed down to me. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook.

I may not have grown up in Italy, but through Maria's recipe, I feel connected to her heritage and the traditions of her homeland. And for that, I will always be thankful. Cooking has a way of bringing people together, and I am grateful for the memories and experiences that have been created in my kitchen over the years.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, preparing a meal for loved ones, remember the joy and love that goes into each dish. And maybe, just maybe, you'll find yourself creating a new tradition that will be passed down for generations to come. Bon appétit!