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Greek Stuffed Onions

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When it comes to Greek cuisine, most people think of moussaka, souvlaki, or spanakopita, but there’s one hidden gem that deserves just as much attention: Greek Stuffed Onions (Gemista Kremmydia). This rustic dish, made by hollowing out tender onions and filling them with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, herbs, tomatoes, and spices, is a true celebration of Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Onions:

  • 6 large yellow or sweet onions

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)

  • ½ cup cooked rice (optional, for texture)

  • 1 small tomato, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds depth!)

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

  • ¼ teaspoon allspice (optional but enhances flavor)

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce (Optional but Recommended!):

  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes

  • ½ cup beef or vegetable broth

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon sugar

For Garnishing:

  • Crumbled feta cheese

  • Fresh parsley

  • Extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions

  • Peel the onions and trim off the tops and bottoms.

  • Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the onions for 10 minutes to soften them.

  • Remove from water, let them cool slightly, then carefully peel away the layers one by one, keeping them whole.

  • Reserve the smaller inner layers for the filling.

2. Make the Filling

  • Finely chop the reserved onion layers and sauté them in olive oil until softened.

  • Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

  • Stir in the garlic, chopped tomato, spices, and rice (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes.

  • Remove from heat and mix in the parsley. Let it cool slightly.

3. Stuff the Onions

  • Take each onion layer and fill it with a spoonful of the meat mixture, then gently roll or fold it closed.

  • Arrange the stuffed onions seam-side down in a baking dish.

4. Prepare the Sauce (Optional, but Delicious!)

  • In a bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, olive oil, vinegar, and sugar.

  • Pour the sauce over the stuffed onions.

5. Bake to Perfection

  • Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes.

  • Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes to let the tops brown slightly.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

  • Garnish with crumbled feta, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.

  • Serve with warm crusty bread or a side of tzatziki for the ultimate Greek experience!

Notes

How to Serve Greek Stuffed Onions

✔ With Greek Salad – A refreshing side of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta balances the richness.

✔ Over Rice or Couscous – A great way to make it a complete meal.

✔ With Tzatziki Sauce – The creamy yogurt dip adds a cool contrast to the warm, spiced filling.

✔ As Part of a Mezze Platter – Serve alongside dolmades, hummus, and grilled pita for a Mediterranean feast.

Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Onions

🔹 Use Sweet Onions – They have a milder taste and become even sweeter when baked.

🔹 Don’t Overstuff – Fill the onions generously, but not so much that they split open.

🔹 For Extra Flavor, Add Nuts & Raisins – Pine nuts and golden raisins add an authentic Mediterranean touch.

🔹 Make Ahead & Reheat – Stuffed onions taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep.

  • Author: niold.com

Find it online: https://niold.com/greek-stuffed-onions/