When it comes to Mediterranean cuisine, few dishes are as enticing as Greek Beef Stuffed Onions, known as Salantourmasi. This delightful dish offers a unique twist on traditional stuffed vegetables, combining the rich flavors of seasoned beef with the sweet, tender taste of cooked onions. As you take your first bite, the savory filling perfectly contrasts with the natural sweetness of the onion, creating a truly memorable culinary experience.
Moreover, preparing Greek Beef Stuffed Onions is a rewarding endeavor that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a family meal or seeking a new weeknight dinner idea, these stuffed onions are sure to impress. With their delicious filling and appealing presentation, Salantourmasi will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, inviting everyone to savor the flavors of Greece.
Delicious Origins of Greek Beef Stuffed Onions (Salantourmasi):
The delectable Greek beef stuffed onions, known as Salantourmasi, are a delightful representation of Mediterranean culinary traditions. Originating from the rich agricultural landscapes of Greece, this dish showcases the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients typical of Greek cooking. The tender onions are hollowed and generously filled with a savory mixture of minced beef, rice, herbs, and spices, encapsulating the essence of home-cooked meals cherished in Greek families.
This dish is often prepared for special occasions and gatherings, as it brings once-familiar flavors to life. Diving deeper into the history of traditional Greek food, you can explore how similar recipes evolve over time, leading to unique takes on beloved dishes. For further inspiration in your culinary adventures, check out our article on [Greek Lentil Soup](#) to see how you can balance flavors in every meal.
The harmonious blend of flavors in Greek beef stuffed onions serves as a comforting reminder of the communal joy found in food, uniting people through shared experiences.
Ingredients for Greek Beef Stuffed Onions (Salantourmasi):
To prepare delicious Greek Beef Stuffed Onions, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large yellow onions, peeled
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 pound ground beef, divided
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3/4 cup white long grain rice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/3 cup crumbled Greek feta
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano, plus more for garnish
For the Tomato Broth, gather:
- 4 cups onion cooking water
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon paste
This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of beef and aromatic herbs while utilizing the sweetness of caramelized onions.
How to Prepare :
To create delicious Greek Beef Stuffed Onions (Salantourmasi), start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully hollow out the four large yellow onions, leaving a thick outer layer. In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until fragrant, then add minced garlic, black pepper, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir in the ground beef, oregano, and tomato paste; cook until the beef is browned.
Next, combine rice, red wine vinegar, and chicken broth, allowing the mixture to simmer. Gently fold in crumbled feta, parsley, mint, and fresh oregano, ensuring an even distribution. Stuff the hollowed onions with the beef-rice filling. Then, in a baking dish, combine 4 cups of onion cooking water, tomato sauce, and chicken bouillon paste—a delightful broth for extra flavor. Arrange the stuffed onions in the dish, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for about 50 minutes. For additional details, refer to this detailed recipe for Greek Beef Stuffed Onions (Salantourmasi). Enjoy these hearty and flavorful beauties!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Greek Beef Stuffed Onions (Salantourmasi):
To make delicious Greek beef stuffed onions, or Salantourmasi, choose medium-sized onions that are firm and fresh. Start by carefully peeling the onions and then simmering them in water for about 10 minutes. This step softens the onions and makes them easier to hollow out. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the centers without breaking the outer layers.
When preparing the beef filling, opt for a blend of lean ground beef mixed with fresh herbs like parsley and mint. Incorporate rice for texture and soak it in broth for added flavor. Remember, browning the meat enhances the taste, so take your time when cooking it. To finish, bake the stuffed onions in a covered dish with some tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions :
Greek Beef Stuffed Onions, also known as Salantourmasi, make a delightful centerpiece for any meal. To enhance the flavors of these savory treats, serve them alongside a refreshing Greek salad. This combo balances the rich meat filling with crisp, fresh vegetables, creating a vibrant plate.
For a complete experience, pair it with a side of tzatziki sauce. The cooling yogurt dip complements the warm flavors of the stuffed onions, providing a delicious contrast. Additionally, a side of roasted potatoes drizzled with olive oil can round out your meal wonderfully.
Consider serving these delectable stuffed onions during gatherings or family dinners. The hearty nature and unique flavors make them an instant crowd-pleaser. For dessert, a light lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate, leaving everyone satisfied. Lastly, don’t forget to explore our collection of Mediterranean-inspired recipes for more culinary delights.
Storage Tips for Greek Beef Stuffed Onions (Salantourmasi):
To keep your Greek Beef Stuffed Onions (Salantourmasi) fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. When reheating, do so slowly in the oven to maintain their flavor and texture. For additional ideas, explore our range of delicious Greek recipes for meal inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What are Greek Beef Stuffed Onions (Salantourmasi)?
Greek Beef Stuffed Onions, known as Salantourmasi, are a traditional dish featuring onions hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, herbs, and spices. This delightful recipe not only showcases the rich flavors of Greek cuisine but also offers a unique way to enjoy a comforting meal.
How do you prepare the onions for Salantourmasi?
The preparation involves carefully peeling and hollowing out large onions, creating a vessel for the stuffing. This method enhances the flavor, as the onions cook down, infusing the meat mixture with their natural sweetness throughout the roasting process.
Can you make Greek Beef Stuffed Onions ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing and fill the onions ahead of time. Refrigerate them before baking, allowing the flavors to meld. On the day of serving, simply place them in the oven for a warm and satisfying dish.
What sides pair well with Salantourmasi?
To complement Greek Beef Stuffed Onions, consider serving them alongside a fresh Greek salad or crispy roasted potatoes. These accompaniments enhance the overall meal experience, providing a burst of freshness and texture.
Are there vegetarian alternatives for Salantourmasi?
Yes, you can easily create a vegetarian version by substituting the beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of grains. This variation maintains the essence of the dish while catering to vegetarian diets without losing flavor.
Where can I find more Greek recipes?
For more delightful Greek recipes, including dishes like traditional spanakopita or comforting moussaka, visit our website’s Greek cuisine section. This resource offers a variety of authentic flavors that can inspire your next culinary adventure.
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Greek Beef Stuffed Onions (Salantourmasi) – Deliciously Irresistible
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Greek Beef Stuffed Onions (Salantourmasi) are a delightful dish featuring tender onions stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and herbs, all simmered in a flavorful tomato broth.
Ingredients
4 large yellow onions peeled
1/4 cup olive oil plus more for drizzling
1 pound ground beef divided
1 cup diced onion
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 pinch cayenne pepper
4 garlic cloves minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3/4 cup white long grain rice
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/3 cup crumbled Greek feta
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano plus more for garnish
4 cups onion cooking water
2 cups tomato sauce
2 tablespoons chicken bouillon paste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the onions and scoop out the insides, reserving the onion flesh for the filling.
- In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat, then add the diced onion and sauté until soft.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the garlic, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and tomato paste, cooking for another couple of minutes.
- Mix in the reserved onion flesh, rice, red wine vinegar, and chicken broth. Cook until the rice is tender, about 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and fold in feta, parsley, mint, and oregano.
- Stuff the onion shells with the beef-rice mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the onion cooking water, tomato sauce, and chicken bouillon paste, then pour around the stuffed onions in the dish.
- Drizzle a bit more olive oil on top of the stuffed onions and cover the dish with foil.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the onions are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh oregano.
Notes
For added flavor, you can let the stuffed onions marinate for a few hours before baking. Serve with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed onion portion
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Greek Beef Stuffed Onions, Salantourmasi, stuffed onions, Greek recipes