This stuffed onion recipe is so delicious that it’s impossible to have just one piece. Follow these detailed steps to create a dish that will be a hit at any meal. The combination of tender onions and flavorful filling makes this recipe truly special.
Ingredients:
- 7 medium onions
- 300 grams ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup parboiled rice
- Parsley to taste
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 very full tablespoons of tomato paste (divided)
- 60 milliliters vegetable oil
- 60 milliliters olive oil
- 1.5 teaspoons salt (divided)
- 1 generous pinch black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon chimichurri seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 2 cups warm water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Onions:
- Start by cutting the tops off of the seven medium onions and peeling them.
- Cut each onion halfway through from top to bottom, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Place the onions in a large pot of boiling water and let them cook for 20 minutes. This softens the onions and makes it easier to separate the layers.
- After cooking, gently separate the onion layers one by one, being careful not to tear them. Set the layers aside to cool.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 300 grams of ground beef, one finely chopped medium onion, one cup of parboiled rice, parsley to taste, and three crushed garlic cloves.
- Add one very full tablespoon of tomato paste and 60 milliliters of vegetable oil.
- Season the mixture with 1.5 teaspoons of salt, a generous pinch of black pepper, 0.5 teaspoon of chimichurri seasoning, and 0.5 teaspoon of sweet paprika.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
- Stuff the Onions:
- Take one teaspoon of the meat mixture and fill each onion layer with it. Be gentle to avoid tearing the onion layers.
- Continue until all the onion layers are filled with the meat mixture.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine one very full tablespoon of tomato paste, 60 milliliters of olive oil, two cups of warm water, and one teaspoon of salt.
- Mix until the tomato paste is fully dissolved and the sauce is well blended.
- Cook the Stuffed Onions:
- Arrange the stuffed onions in a large, deep saucepan or baking dish. Make sure they are snugly packed but not too tight to allow for even cooking.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the stuffed onions, ensuring that they are well coated.
- Sprinkle some additional parsley to taste over the top for added flavor and garnish.
- Cover the saucepan or baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Simmer the Onions:
- Place the covered saucepan or baking dish on the stove over medium heat.
- Let the onions simmer for 45 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure they are not drying out. Add a little more water if necessary to keep them moist.
- The onions are ready when they are tender, and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the stuffed onions are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly.
- Serve the stuffed onions hot, drizzled with the sauce from the pan.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Filling: Add a little grated cheese to the filling for a richer flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the filling for a spicy version.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or cilantro can be added to the filling or sprinkled on top before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Onions: Rich in vitamins C and B6, and antioxidants. They have anti-inflammatory properties and promote heart health.
- Ground Beef: A good source of high-quality protein, iron, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and rich in vitamins B6 and C, manganese, and selenium.
- Rice: Provides essential carbohydrates and energy. Parboiled rice is also a good source of fiber and nutrients.
This stuffed onion recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress. The combination of tender onions and savory meat filling creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to various dietary preferences and occasions.
Share Your Experience:
I hope you enjoy making and eating these irresistible stuffed onions. Share this recipe with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you. If you have any favorite variations or tips, Iād love to hear about them. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish, and see you in the next recipe adventure!
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