Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Trim the root end and the top of the onions to create a flat surface.
- Place the onions in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-15 minutes until slightly softened.
- Carefully remove the onions from the pot and let them cool slightly.
- Hollow out the centers of the onions, leaving about ½ inch of the outer layers intact. Reserve the scooped-out onion pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion (scooped-out onion pieces) and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add ground meat (or lentils) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, cooked rice, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, thyme, salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese (if using). Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Taste the filling and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Stuff each onion cavity with the prepared filling, packing it in tightly but not overstuffing.
- Place the stuffed onions in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Add chicken broth or water to the bottom of the dish to a depth of about 1/4 inch.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the filling is golden brown.
- Let the stuffed onions rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Don't overcook the onions when boiling them, or they will fall apart. Add a drizzle of olive oil or extra parmesan cheese on top before the final bake for enhanced flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils or quinoa. Consider adding chopped vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the filling for added flavor and texture.