I absolutely adore this stuffed tomatoes recipe because it combines the rich, hearty flavors of ground pork and beef with the fresh, juicy essence of ripe tomatoes—it’s comfort food that feels both rustic and gourmet. Plus, it’s super simple to make, filling my kitchen with the irresistible aroma of garlic and thyme, basically promising a cozy, home-cooked delight every time.
My version of Classic Tomates Farcies is a delightful dish, hailing from France, that features juicy tomatoes, ripe for the picking, stuffed to the brim with a savory mixture of ground pork and beef, finely chopped onions, and minced garlic. I adore how the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan add depth.
I worship fresh parsley and thyme and the way they enhance the luscious tomato flavor. This is a dish that really comforts me.
It’s a punchy ensemble of the well-known protein trio of pork, beef, and cheese. And yet, I serve it with a side salad of mixed greens, tossed with just oil and vinegar.
Rich and hearty as it is, I still consider Tomates Farcies a refined meal.
Ingredients
Tomatoes:
They are packed with juice and richness, as well as vitamin A and C, to add freshness.
Ground Pork:
Delivers tenderness and depth, with savory flavors.
Ground Beef:
A sturdy foundation, full of proteins and necessary vitamins.
Onion:
Provides gentle sweetness and fragrant richness, boosts taste.
Garlic:
(Adds) warm, pungent, and anti-inflammatory.
Bread Crumbs:
Imparts texture and stretches the filling, maintaining a light bind.
Parsley:
Brightens the dish: fresh, vibrant herb with antioxidants.
Egg:
Secures items together, renders a greater measure of body, and enhances the amount of protein.
Parmesan Cheese:
Umami depth is enhanced by a flavorful, nutty quality.
Ingredient Quantities
- 6 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for baking dish)
Instructions
1. Set your oven to an initial temperature of 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the tomatoes and clean out the insides with a spoon, keeping the pulp and setting the tomatoes aside.
3. In a big bowl, mix together the ground pork, ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Combine thoroughly.
4. Dice the reserved tomato pulp and add it to the meat mixture, stirring to combine.
5. Fill the hollowed-out tomatoes with the meat filling, pressing down gently to pack it in.
6. Arrange the tomatoes, stuffed with the filling, in a baking dish. If you choose to use it, pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the dish.
7. Olive oil should be drizzled over the tomatoes that have been stuffed, and the grated Parmesan cheese should lightly dust the tops.
8. Enclose the dish in aluminum foil and place in the evenly heated oven for half an hour.
9. Take off the foil and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the tomatoes are tender.
10. Allow the tomatoes to cool down a bit before serving. Relish your timeless tomatoes stuffed with a savory filling at a warm or hot temperature for an extra tasty meal.
Equipment Needed
1. Oven
2. Knife
3. Spoon
4. Large bowl
5. Cutting board
6. Baking dish
7. Aluminum foil
8. Measuring cups and spoons
9. Mixing spoon
FAQ
- Can I use just one type of meat?If you prefer, you can use all pork or all beef. Just ensure the total weight remains the same for optimal texture and flavor.
- What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?You can use crushed crackers, panko, or cooked rice in place of breadcrumbs, although they might change the texture a bit.
- How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too soggy?Once hollowed, the insides should be sprinkled with a little salt and then set upside down for a few minutes to drain off any excess moisture.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?Indeed, a meat substitute can be sourced from plants. Simply adjust the seasonings to your taste buds. Another option: fold in some properly cooked lentils or beans for added textural intrigue.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?Certainly, the stuffed tomatoes can be made a day in advance and then kept covered in the refrigerator. For best results, bake them just before serving.
- What should I serve with Tomates Farcies?A straightforward green salad, some crusty bread, or a light pasta dish makes a capable partner for this dish. Their simplicity complements the rich flavors.
- Do I need to core the tomatoes completely?Certainly, remove the seeds and flesh, but ensure the walls are sturdy enough to hold the stuffing. Save the tops to use as lids while baking to add even more flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
Pork that has been ground: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Panko breadcrumbs make for a crunchier texture, but almond flour offers a gluten-free alternative.
Use fresh cilantro or basil to replace fresh parsley in a dish, and it will be a different-flavored dish. The same thing goes for any herb in this list. Use a different herb, and you will get a different flavor.
Dried thyme: Substitute with dried oregano or rosemary for an aromatic component.
Parmesan cheese, grated: For a rich, cheesy flavor, substitute Pecorino Romano or Gruyère.
Pro Tips
1. Tomato Pulp Integration: After hollowing out the tomatoes, ensure the reserved pulp is finely diced before mixing it into the meat mixture. This ensures even distribution and enhances the flavor without large chunks disrupting the texture.
2. Breading Boost: Toast the breadcrumbs lightly in a pan with a little olive oil before adding them to the meat mixture. This adds a deeper flavor and prevents the stuffing from becoming too soggy.
3. Flavorful Broth: If using the chicken broth, consider adding a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste to it. This will infuse the tomatoes with an extra layer of flavor as they bake.
4. Cheese Variety: Mix a small amount of mozzarella with the Parmesan for a gooey texture on top of the tomatoes. Alternatively, use a sharper cheese like Pecorino Romano for a more pronounced flavor.
5. Resting Time: After removing the stuffed tomatoes from the oven, let them rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes for easier serving as they firm up slightly.
Classic Tomates Farcies Baked Ground Meat Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
My favorite Classic Tomates Farcies Baked Ground Meat Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Oven
2. Knife
3. Spoon
4. Large bowl
5. Cutting board
6. Baking dish
7. Aluminum foil
8. Measuring cups and spoons
9. Mixing spoon
Ingredients:
- 6 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for baking dish)
Instructions:
1. Set your oven to an initial temperature of 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the tomatoes and clean out the insides with a spoon, keeping the pulp and setting the tomatoes aside.
3. In a big bowl, mix together the ground pork, ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Combine thoroughly.
4. Dice the reserved tomato pulp and add it to the meat mixture, stirring to combine.
5. Fill the hollowed-out tomatoes with the meat filling, pressing down gently to pack it in.
6. Arrange the tomatoes, stuffed with the filling, in a baking dish. If you choose to use it, pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the dish.
7. Olive oil should be drizzled over the tomatoes that have been stuffed, and the grated Parmesan cheese should lightly dust the tops.
8. Enclose the dish in aluminum foil and place in the evenly heated oven for half an hour.
9. Take off the foil and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the tomatoes are tender.
10. Allow the tomatoes to cool down a bit before serving. Relish your timeless tomatoes stuffed with a savory filling at a warm or hot temperature for an extra tasty meal.
