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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/