Herb & Rice Stuffed Onions
A Mediterranean-inspired dish, these Herb & Rice Stuffed Onions are a flavorful and healthy meal. The tender onions are filled with savory rice, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, making this a perfect vegetarian option that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions
- 1 cup rice (preferably basmati or long grain)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp pine nuts (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Onions: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut off the top of each onion and peel away the outer layers, leaving the onion intact. Hollow out the center of the onions carefully, removing the core, leaving enough of the outer layers to form a sturdy shell.
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, cook the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Stir in the chopped parsley, cilantro, cinnamon, cumin, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff the Onions: Gently stuff each hollowed onion with the seasoned rice mixture, pressing it in to ensure it’s packed. If desired, add a few pine nuts to the rice for extra flavor and crunch.
- Bake: Place the stuffed onions in a baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the onions, and pour the vegetable broth around them. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the filling is heated through.
- Finish & Serve: If using, top with butter and a squeeze of lemon juice. Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this delicious Mediterranean delight as a side dish or a main course!