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Jeweled Rice Stuffed Onions

Jeweled Rice Stuffed Onions: A Colorful Vegetarian Sensation

Jeweled Rice Stuffed Onions is a magical recipe transforming humble onions into a festive centerpiece, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 onions
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Onion Base
  • 1.5 tbsp Kosher Salt Enhances the flavor of the onions during boiling.
  • 2 large Yellow Onions Serve as the main vessel for stuffing.
For the Rice Filling
  • 1 cup Basmati Rice Rinsed; any long-grain rice can work.
  • 4 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Divided; substitute with avocado oil if desired.
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter Melted; can use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 cups Water Divided; necessary for cooking rice and baking onions.
For the Flavor
  • 1/2 tsp Saffron Provides distinct color and flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Plus more to taste.
  • 1 Cinnamon Stick Infuses warmth.
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin Adds earthiness.
  • 1/8 tsp Ground Cardamom Lends a floral note; optional.
For the Crunch and Sweetness
  • 1/4 cup Sliced Almonds Toasted for added crunch.
  • 1/4 cup Shelled Salted Pistachios Chopped; adds texture and nutty flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Golden Raisins Chopped; sweetness in the filling.
  • 2 tbsp Dried Tart Cherries Chopped; provide a sweet-tart element.
For Garnishing
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley Plus more for garnish.
  • Flaky Finishing Salt Optional; enhances the final taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking tray
  • Skillet
  • braising dish

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Start by filling a large pot with 3 quarts of water and adding 1.5 tablespoons of kosher salt. Bring to a boil, add onions, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the onions cook. Spread sliced almonds on a baking tray and toast for about 5 minutes until golden.
  3. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion innermost layers, sauté until translucent, then stir in basmati rice, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, saffron, spices, and 1 cup of water. Simmer for 3 minutes.
  4. Fold in toasted almonds, pistachios, raisins, dried cherries, and parsley into the rice mixture.
  5. Carefully peel the outer layers of the onions, keeping about 20 intact. Fill with rice mixture, placing stuffed onions in a lightly oiled braising dish.
  6. Pour 1 cup of water into the braiser, season, drizzle remaining melted butter, cover, and bake in an oven for 30-40 minutes.
  7. Once baked, drizzle with olive oil, garnish with parsley and nuts or fruits, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1onionCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Great for holiday gatherings, these Jeweled Rice Stuffed Onions cater to various dietary needs and can be made ahead of time.

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