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Greek Stuffed Onions

Perfect as a main course or side dish, these stuffed onions are healthy, satisfying, and full of Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special gathering, they’re sure to impress!

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

  1. Peel the onions and cut off the top and bottom ends.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add onions and boil for 8-10 minutes until slightly softened.
  3. Drain and let them cool slightly.
  4. 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

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned.
  4. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, cooked rice, and all spices.
  5. Cook for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
  6. Stir in parsley, mint, and crumbled feta (if using).

3. Stuff the Onions

  1. Spoon the filling into the hollowed-out onions, pressing gently to pack them well.
  2. Arrange them in a baking dish.

4. Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a bowl, mix broth, tomato sauce, lemon juice, and olive oil.
  2. Pour the sauce around the onions in the baking dish.

5. Bake the Onions

  1. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
  2. 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.
  • Author: niold.com