lomiloml
Culinary Explorer
I recently tried making Greek Gemista, and it was a delightful experience! This traditional Greek dish features vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini, stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat, then baked until tender. It's light yet satisfying, making it a perfect summer meal or a great way to enjoy fresh produce. Here's how you can make this comforting and flavorful dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 large tomatoes
- 4 bell peppers (red or yellow)
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup rice (short-grain or long-grain)
- 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb (optional, for a meat version)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a traditional twist)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Start by cutting the tops off the tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchinis. Carefully scoop out the insides of the tomatoes and peppers, being careful not to break the skin. Set the hollowed-out vegetables aside.
- For the zucchini, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/2 inch of the zucchini around the edges.
- Save the scooped-out pulp from the tomatoes and zucchinis for the filling.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- If you're using ground meat, add it to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Add the rice, oregano, cinnamon (if using), and chopped herbs (parsley and dill). Stir everything together for 2-3 minutes.
- Chop the reserved tomato and zucchini pulp, and add it to the pan along with salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of the tomato sauce. Mix well, and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool for a few minutes.
3. Stuff the Vegetables:
- Stuff each hollowed-out vegetable (tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini) with the rice and herb mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling inside.
- Arrange the stuffed vegetables in a baking dish, standing them upright.
4. Bake the Gemista:
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes over the stuffed vegetables, and add the water or broth to the bottom of the baking dish to help with steaming.
- Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top of the stuffed vegetables.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender and the rice is fully cooked.
5. Serve:
- Let the Gemista cool slightly before serving. You can garnish with more fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of freshness.
Conclusion:
Greek Gemista is a beautifully flavorful dish that combines fresh, tender vegetables with a delicious rice filling. Whether you choose the vegetarian version or add meat, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy wholesome ingredients. The dish is comforting, yet light, with aromatic herbs and spices that transport you straight to Greece. Serve it with a side of Greek yogurt or a simple salad, and you have a meal that's perfect for any occasion—healthy, hearty, and full of flavor!
Such a classic Greek dish—so flavorful and comforting. Can’t wait to try your recipe!
