When I first encountered a beautifully cooked beef tomato dish at a bustling street market in Hanoi, it was a culinary revelation. The flavors were so rich, so deep, that they immediately whisked me away on a journey of taste I hadn’t expected. And today, I’m thrilled to share with you my take on this classic, ensuring every bite is as memorable as my first.

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Fusion
Total Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before diving into the preparation, make sure you have the following kitchen essentials:

Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Medium bowl

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life. Let’s keep everything straightforward, shall we?

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground beef	500g
Large tomatoes	4, halved
Onion, finely chopped	1 large
Garlic, minced	3 cloves
Fresh basil leaves	1/4 cup, chopped
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste
Mozzarella cheese	1/2 cup, shredded

Did you know? Tomatoes are not only a rich source of Vitamin C but also contain lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to many health benefits.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prep the Ingredients

Chop the onions and garlic finely.
Halve the tomatoes and scoop out the seeds to form a little ‘bowl’ within each.

Note: Keep the tomato pulp; it can be used to add flavor to the sauce.

Step 2 – Cook the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onions and garlic, sauté until they are soft and translucent.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef, stirring until it browns evenly.

Warning: Make sure the beef is fully cooked before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3 – Combine and Cook

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix the cooked beef with half of the chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the halved tomatoes with the beef mixture and top each with mozzarella cheese.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a bit of a crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Step 4 – Bake to Perfection

Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking tray.
Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Fun Fact: The practice of stuffing vegetables dates back to ancient times, with various cultures adopting it as a method to extend the variety of their meals.

Additional Tips

For a leaner option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can also be added for more flavor complexity.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this delightful beef tomato with a simple side salad or over a bed of freshly cooked pasta for a fuller meal. Here are a few other pairing ideas:

Garlic bread
Steamed green beans
A light red wine, such as Pinot Noir

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	350
Protein	26g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	20g

Approximation: Nutritional values are estimated based on standard ingredient portions.

Dietary Information

This beef tomato recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for a low-carb diet by reducing the cheese or substituting it with a low-fat option.

FAQs about Beef Tomato

What are the best tomatoes to use for this recipe?

The best tomatoes are the ones that are firm and ripe, like Beefsteak or Roma, as they hold up well during the cooking process.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the stuffed tomatoes a day ahead and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef for a mixture of quinoa and finely chopped mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Are there any dairy-free options for this dish?

Yes, you can use vegan cheese substitutes available in the market or skip the cheese altogether.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Can this recipe be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the prepped but unbaked stuffed tomatoes for up to a month.

How can I make the beef tomato spicier?

Add chopped chili peppers or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the beef mixture to kick up the heat.

Conclusion

This beef tomato recipe is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about creating a moment, a delicious memory that lingers on the palate and in the mind. It’s about bringing simple ingredients together to create something that feels grand.

I invite you to try this recipe, tweak it to your taste, and share your experiences or ask questions below. Your feedback drives this culinary journey we’re on together!

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