Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe

History of Stuffed Tomatoes:

Stuffed tomatoes, also known as tomato boats, have been a popular dish for many years. This recipe originated in the United States, and it has its roots in Southern cuisine. The concept of stuffing vegetables can be traced back to Europe, with stuffed peppers and stuffed zucchini being popular dishes in Mediterranean countries. However, stuffed tomatoes bring a unique twist to this concept by utilizing the versatility and flavor of the tomato.

Fun Facts about Stuffed Tomatoes:

- The shape and size of the tomato play a crucial role in this recipe. Round, very firm, and evenly sized tomatoes are ideal for stuffing. This ensures that the tomatoes hold their shape when filled and baked.

- The tomato pulp that is removed from the center can be saved and used in other recipes, such as soups, sauces, or salsa. Waste not, want not!

- The "cold slaw" filling mentioned in the original recipe is essentially a coleslaw mixture. This adds a refreshing crunch and tang to the stuffed tomatoes.

- Mayonnaise dressing is commonly used as a topping for stuffed tomatoes. However, you can experiment with other dressings or sauces to suit your taste preferences.

Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe:

Ingredients:
- 6 round, very firm, and evenly sized tomatoes
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (finely prepared "cold slaw")
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise dressing
- Lettuce leaves, for serving

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Wash and skin the tomatoes. Cut off the top of each tomato and set it aside to use as a cover. Carefully scrape out the inside of the tomatoes, being cautious not to break the tomato. Reserve the pulp for other recipes if desired.

3. Sprinkle salt inside each tomato and invert them on ice to chill. This helps to firm up the tomatoes and make them easier to handle.

4. In a bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise dressing. Stir well to ensure that the coleslaw is evenly coated.

5. Fill each tomato with the prepared coleslaw mixture, making sure to pack it in tightly. Place the reserved tomato tops back on each filled tomato to cover the stuffing.

6. Arrange the stuffed tomatoes on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves on a serving platter or individual plates.

7. Pour a tablespoon of thick boiled dressing over each stuffed tomato. Alternatively, you can use your choice of dressing or sauce to suit your preference.

8. Serve the stuffed tomatoes as a mound or individually, depending on your presentation preference.

Similar Recipes:

If you enjoy stuffed tomatoes, you might also like other stuffed vegetable dishes. Stuffed peppers are a classic option, where bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of meat, rice, and vegetables. Another popular choice is stuffed zucchini, where the hollowed-out zucchini is filled with a flavorful stuffing and baked until tender.

Additionally, stuffed mushrooms are another delicious option. Portobello mushroom caps are often filled with a mixture of cheese, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, then baked until golden and delicious.

These stuffed vegetable dishes provide endless opportunities for creativity and customization, allowing you to experiment with different fillings, seasonings, and toppings to suit your taste preferences.

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