Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatos

Egyptian Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe with Rice and Mint

Region / culture: Egypt | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of lentils, rice, and fresh tomatoes creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in many cultures as a way to enjoy the bounty of fresh tomatoes during the summer months. It is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of uncooked white rice
0.25 cup of red lentils
0.5 cup of boiling water
1 tbsp of butter
0.5 chopped onion
1 and 0.5 tsp of chopped fresh mint leaves
salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste
4 medium tomatoes
1 tbsp of vegetable oil
0.5 clove of crushed garlic

How to prepare

1. Rinse the rice and lentils in a strainer.
2. Place them in a small saucepan and stir in boiling water. Cover the saucepan.
3. Cook for 10 minutes over medium heat.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter or margarine in a sauté pan.
5. Add the onion and sauté until golden brown over medium-low heat.
6. Stir in the lentil mixture and mint.
7. Season generously with salt and pepper.
8. Slice the tops off the tomatoes and set them aside.
9. Scoop out the insides of the tomatoes and set them aside.
10. Fill the tomato shells with the lentil mixture and replace the tops.
11. Stand the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish.
12. Chop the reserved tomato insides and place them in a small bowl.
13. Mix in the oil and garlic.
14. Pour the mixture around the stuffed tomatoes.
15. Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 10 to 15 minutes.
16. Remove from the oven and serve.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the lentil mixture for added flavor and texture.
Top the stuffed tomatoes with grated cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different grain option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the rice and lentils before cooking to remove any excess starch.

- Cooking the lentils in boiling water helps them cook faster and more evenly.

- Sautéing the onions until golden brown adds a rich flavor to the dish.

- Season the lentil mixture generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

- Baking the stuffed tomatoes in the oven helps to soften the tomatoes and meld the flavors together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onions until golden brown adds depth of flavor to the dish.

- Baking the stuffed tomatoes helps to soften them and meld the flavors together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute fresh parsley or cilantro for the mint leaves.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the lentil mixture ahead of time and stuff the tomatoes just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers 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 Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes is a nutritious and balanced meal that is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light meal. With a combination of lentils, rice, and fresh tomatoes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my mother in the garden. I was taking a break on the front porch, sipping on a glass of lemonade, when a neighbor from down the street came walking by.

She was a sweet old lady with a twinkle in her eye and a basket full of fresh vegetables in her hands. As she passed by, she stopped and said, "Would you like to try something new for dinner tonight? I have a delicious recipe for stuffed tomatoes that you simply must try."

Intrigued, I invited her inside and she proceeded to show me how to make the most delicious Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes I had ever tasted. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

As we worked together in the kitchen, she shared stories of her childhood and how her family had always been passionate about growing their own fruits and vegetables. She explained that the key to a good dish was using fresh, quality ingredients, and that a little love and attention to detail could make all the difference.

I watched in amazement as she expertly chopped and sautéed the vegetables, cooked the lentils to perfection, and carefully hollowed out the tomatoes to create the perfect vessel for the filling. Her hands moved with such grace and skill, and I couldn't help but feel inspired by her passion for cooking.

After the tomatoes were stuffed and baked to golden perfection, we sat down at the table to enjoy our meal together. The flavors were out of this world – the earthy lentils, the tangy tomatoes, and the aromatic herbs all combined to create a dish that was truly a work of art.

As we ate, she shared more stories from her past, and I felt a deep connection to her and the generations of women who had come before her. I realized that cooking wasn't just about following a recipe – it was a way to connect with our roots, to honor our heritage, and to create memories that would last a lifetime.

After our meal, she presented me with a handwritten copy of the recipe, complete with notes and tips for making it just right. I thanked her profusely and promised to cherish it always.

From that day on, Vegetarian Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for my family, my friends, and anyone else who was lucky enough to taste it. Each time I prepared the dish, I felt a connection to that sweet old neighbor and the generations of women who had passed down their love of cooking to me.

And now, as I share this recipe with you, I hope that you will feel that same connection – to me, to my mother, to that sweet old neighbor, and to all the women who came before us. May this dish bring you joy, nourishment, and a deep appreciation for the art of cooking. Enjoy!