Stuffed Lamb Tomatoes
Stuffed Lamb Tomatoes is a classic Greek dish that holds a distinguished place in traditional cooking. Celebrated for its wholesome ingredients and time-honored preparation, this dish brings authentic regional character to the home kitchen.
Carefully prepared featuring Tomatoes, Onion, Garlic Clove, Lamb, Cinnamon, Tomato Puree, Rice, Chicken Stock, Dill, Chopped Parsley and Mint, the ingredients are simmered and seasoned to achieve a satisfying depth of flavor. True to traditional Greek cooking, the dish focuses on refreshing and aromatic with wild mountain oregano, rich olive oil, and sharp cheeses.
In authentic Greek tradition, Stuffed Lamb Tomatoes is best presented with a crisp village salad and warm pita.
If you enjoy authentic Greek cooking, be sure to also explore our recipe for Lamb And Lemon Souvlaki.
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Ingredients
- Tomatoes4 large
- SugarPinch
- Olive Oil4 tbs
- Onion1 chopped
- Garlic Clove2 finely chopped
- Lamb200g
- Cinnamon1 tbs
- Tomato Puree2 tbs chopped
- Rice50g
- Chicken Stock100ml
- Dill4 tbs
- Chopped Parsley2 tbs
- Mint1 tbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
13 stepsInteractive Cook Mode: Click any step or circle to check it off as you cook.
Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4.
Slice the tops off the tomatoes and reserve.
Scoop out most of the pulp with a teaspoon, being careful not to break the skin.
Finely chop the pulp, and keep any juices.
Sprinkle the insides of the tomatoes with a little sugar to take away the acidity, then place them on a baking tray.
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan, add the onion and garlic, then gently cook for about 10 mins until soft but not coloured.
Add the lamb, cinnamon and tomato purée, turn up the heat, then fry until the meat is browned.
Add the tomato pulp and juice, the rice and the stock.
Season generously.
Bring to the boil, then simmer for 15 mins or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Set aside to cool a little, then stir in the herbs.
Stuff the tomatoes up to the brim, top tomatoes with their lids, drizzle with 2 tbsp more olive oil, sprinkle 3 tbsp water into the tray, then bake for 35 mins.
Serve with salad and crusty bread, hot or cold.
👨🍳 Chef's Culinary Notes
Cultural Heritage
Stuffed Lamb Tomatoes reflects the timeless heritage of traditional Greek home cooking, refreshing and aromatic with wild mountain oregano, rich olive oil, and sharp cheeses. Prepared for generations for family gatherings and celebrations, it represents the heart of regional culinary identity.
Dietary Substitutions
For a richer sauce, replace a portion of the water with homemade bone broth, vegetable stock, or a splash of dry wine or red wine vinegar to cut through richness.
Chef Technique Tips
Take the time to thoroughly sear and brown tomatoes in batches before adding the braising liquid. The caramelized fond deposited on the bottom of the pot dissolves into the stew, providing depth and body that cannot be rushed.
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