Ingredients:
- 6 large tomatoes (ripe but firm)
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef or ground pork
- 1/2 cup uncooked rice (long-grain or basmati)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the tomatoes and carefully scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick. Reserve the tomato pulp.
- Lightly season the inside of each tomato with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat a bit of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground beef or pork and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the reserved tomato pulp, canned diced tomatoes, and uncooked rice.
- Add the chopped parsley or basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes, until the rice is partially cooked and the mixture is thickened. It will continue to cook inside the tomatoes.
3. Stuff the Tomatoes:
- Spoon the meat and rice mixture into each tomato, packing it in gently.
- Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
4. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is cooked through.
5. Serve:
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley or basil.
- Serve hot as a main dish or a hearty side.
Enjoy your delicious and satisfying stuffed tomatoes with meat and rice!
