Mahshy Bandora (Stuffed Tomatoes)(Lebanese)
Mahshy Bandora is a delicious Lebanese dish featuring tender, stuffed tomatoes filled with flavorful ground meat and rice, complemented by aromatic spices and vegetables. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, it offers a harmonious blend of savory, spicy, and fresh flavors that delight the senses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core the tomatoes and reserve the inside pulp.
- Fry chopped onions, crushed garlic, and pine nuts in 1 tablespoon vegetable oil until fragrant.
- Add lean ground meat and seasonings (salt, pepper, cinnamon, red pepper) to the fried mixture.
- Cook over medium heat until the meat browns.
- Fill the cored tomatoes with the meat mixture and arrange them in the bottom of a pan.
- Mix the reserved tomato pulp with 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and pour over the stuffed tomatoes.
- Bake in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 15 minutes until the tomatoes are tender.
- Fry chopped green peppers in 2 teaspoons vegetable oil until tender.
- Add 2 1/2 cups water and a pinch of salt to the pan with green peppers and bring to a boil.
- Add the rice and cover the pan, cooking on very low heat for 30 minutes until rice is done.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables into the cooked rice and gently mix.
- Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve the stuffed tomatoes alongside the flavorful rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with lentils or mushrooms. Be sure to season well to maintain flavor. You can also use quinoa or bulgur instead of rice for a different texture. Experiment with spices like cumin or allspice for added depth, and consider adding raisins or pine nuts to the filling for a sweet contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed tomatoes alongside a fresh salad, such as Oriental Cabbage Salad, for a refreshing contrast. A dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini can enhance the dish. For a complete meal, pair with Copper Carrot Pennies to balance the flavors and textures beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mahshy Bandora (Stuffed Tomatoes)(Lebanese) contains roughly 293 calories, with 7g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (247% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1263mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the stuffed tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes a day in advance. Simply stuff them and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together, making them even tastier when cooked.
What can I do if my tomatoes are too small?
If your tomatoes are smaller than specified, you can adjust the filling quantity to fit. Alternatively, you can use zucchini or bell peppers as substitutes for stuffing, as they also hold up well when baked and provide a delicious alternative.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper or add diced jalapeños to the filling. You can also serve the dish with a spicy sauce or chili oil on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).