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Bulgur-Stuffed Gratin Cherry Tomatoes

17/11/2023

Here is the recipe for bulgur-stuffed gratin cherry tomatoes, with a Mediterranean touch that pairs well with the two main components of the dish. The preparation is quite simple and the result will be a delicious and colorful appetizer.

Ingredients

  • 20 cherry tomatoes
  • 100 g of bulgur
  • 100 ml of vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • Fresh parsley to taste
  • Chili powder (optional)
  • 30 g of grated cheese (pecorino or parmesan, depending on preference)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Breadcrumbs to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Preparation

  1. Start by cooking the bulgur. Place it in a pot with the hot vegetable broth and cook according to the instructions on the package until it is soft and has absorbed all the liquid. Season with salt to taste.

  2. Meanwhile, wash the cherry tomatoes, cut off the tops and hollow them out carefully using a teaspoon. Lightly salt the inside and turn them over on a plate to let them lose their water.

  3. In a pan, heat the oil and fry the minced garlic for a minute. Add the cooked bulgur, flavor for a couple of minutes, then remove from heat and add the chopped parsley, chili pepper (if you like), salt, and pepper. Let it cool down and remove the garlic if you prefer.

  4. Fill the cherry tomatoes with the bulgur mixture and place them in a lightly oiled or parchment paper-lined baking dish.

  5. In a bowl, mix the grated cheese with some breadcrumbs and sprinkle the top of the stuffed tomatoes with this mix to create a gratin crust during baking.

  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10-15 minutes or until the surface is golden and crispy.

  7. Serve the gratinated tomatoes hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a touch of freshness and color.

Curiosity

Bulgur is an extremely versatile ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine, rich in fiber and plant proteins. It’s an excellent alternative to couscous and more common grains, and its slightly nutty flavor makes it perfect for pairing with vegetables and Mediterranean flavors. In stuffing the cherry tomatoes, the use of bulgur represents a tasty stuffing that is healthy and nutritious at the same time.