Stuffed pickled gherkins

Stuffed Pickled Tomatoes - An Unusual Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

If you're looking for an original and tasty recipe, stuffed pickled tomatoes are the perfect choice! These little delights are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wonderful way to add a splash of creativity to your plate. Whether served at a family meal or a party with friends, these tomatoes are sure to attract all eyes and praises.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Recipe History
Stuffed pickled tomatoes are a traditional recipe that combines preservation techniques with the joy of enjoying a seasonal meal. These vegetables, often associated with autumn traditions, have been used for generations to provide a hearty and nutritious meal. Stuffing the tomatoes is a way to make the most of available ingredients and create a dish full of flavor and texture.

Ingredients
- 300 g mixed minced meat (pork and beef)
- 1 yellow onion
- 50 ml sunflower oil
- 50 g rice
- 6 pickled tomatoes
- 1 egg
- Iodized salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 5-6 peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- Thyme, to taste
- Dill, to taste
- 500 ml tomato juice
- Tomatoes for the lid

Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Onion and Rice
Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. In a pan, add the sunflower oil and a little water. Sauté the onion over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the rinsed rice and a glass of water, allowing it to simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes. This process will help the rice swell and become soft.

Step 2: Preparing the Tomatoes
Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes. Cut a lid off each tomato and scoop out the insides with a spoon. If the tomatoes are too salty, you can soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to reduce the saltiness. This is an important step as it will enhance the final flavor of the dish.

Step 3: Filling Mixture
Once the rice is cooked, season it with salt and sweet paprika, then mix it with the minced meat. Add the egg and thoroughly combine the mixture. This blend will be the delicious filling for the tomatoes.

Step 4: Stuffing the Tomatoes
Fill each tomato with the meat and rice mixture, being careful not to overfill them as the filling will expand during baking. Place the stuffed tomatoes in a heat-resistant dish, then cover them with slices of fresh tomatoes. Sprinkle thyme, dill, peppercorns, and the bay leaf to add flavor.

Step 5: Baking
Fill the heat-resistant dish with water so that the tomatoes are nearly covered. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 30 minutes, covered. After this time, add the diluted tomato juice and leave in the oven for another 10 minutes, uncovered, to allow a delicious crust to form.

Step 6: Serving
Serve the stuffed tomatoes hot, accompanied by a spoonful of sour cream for added creaminess. They can be garnished with freshly chopped dill for a vibrant appearance and fresh aroma.

Practical Tips
- Choosing Tomatoes: Select quality pickled tomatoes that are not too soft to hold well during baking.
- Meat: You can use chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Variations: Instead of tomatoes, you can use slices of bell pepper for a different flavor.
- Side Dishes: These tomatoes pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or warm polenta.

Nutritional Information
Each serving of stuffed tomatoes contains approximately 250-300 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious option due to the protein from the meat and the fiber from the rice and vegetables. This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, providing a good supply of essential nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of pickled?
Yes, but you'll need to marinate or salt them to achieve a similar taste.
2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure, replace the meat with mushrooms and add chopped vegetables for the filling.
3. How can I store stuffed pickled tomatoes?
They are delicious and can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, but they are best served freshly cooked.

Stuffed pickled tomatoes are more than just a dish; they are a celebration of flavors and aromas, an invitation to share special moments with loved ones. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by the flavor!