Ingredients
For the Onions:
- 6 large yellow or sweet onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Stuffing:
- ½ lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix)
- ½ cup cooked rice (or bulgur for a nuttier texture)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for warmth)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice (optional, for extra depth)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup chopped fresh mint (optional, for freshness)
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Onions
- Peel the onions and cut off the top and bottom ends.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add onions and boil for 8-10 minutes until slightly softened.
- Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Carefully remove the inner layers of each onion, leaving 2-3 outer layers intact. Chop the removed onion layers finely for the stuffing.
2. Make the Stuffing
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned.
- Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, cooked rice, and all spices.
- Cook for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Stir in parsley, mint, and crumbled feta (if using).
3. Stuff the Onions
- Spoon the filling into the hollowed-out onions, pressing gently to pack them well.
- Arrange them in a baking dish.
4. Prepare the Sauce
- In a bowl, mix broth, tomato sauce, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Pour the sauce around the onions in the baking dish.
5. Bake the Onions
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes, until the tops are slightly browned.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra feta.
- Serve warm with pita bread, Greek salad, or roasted potatoes.
Notes
How to Serve Greek Stuffed Onions
- With Rice or Bulgur – A classic pairing that makes it a full meal.
- With Greek Yogurt or Tzatziki – Adds a cool and creamy contrast.
- As a Side Dish – Serve alongside grilled meats or seafood.