Easy Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe to Try

If you’ve ever craved a meal that bursts with fresh flavors yet remains simple to prepare, Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes should be your next culinary adventure. This delightful dish combines juicy, ripe tomatoes filled with a savory mixture that’s both comforting and light. Whether you’re new to Vietnamese cooking or a seasoned foodie looking to add something vibrant to your weeknight rotation, Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes offer an easy, flavorful way to impress your taste buds and your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days without sacrificing taste.
• Fresh and Nutritious: Uses fresh vegetables and lean proteins making it a healthy meal option.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customize with different meats, herbs, or veggies to suit your palate.
• Aromatic and Flavorful: Combines classic Vietnamese herbs and seasoning for a balance of sweet, salty, and savory.
• Visually Appealing: The bright red tomatoes stuffed generously make for a colorful and inviting presentation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients that each add something special—whether it’s texture, flavor, or color. Every component works together to create a harmonious, delicious dish.

• Tomatoes: Choose firm but ripe medium-sized tomatoes to hold the stuffing and maintain juiciness.
• Ground Pork or Chicken: Provides a tender, savory filling that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes’ sweetness.
• Shallots: Adds a mild onion flavor that gently enhances the stuffing’s aroma.
• Garlic: Gives depth and warmth, amplifying the filling’s savory profile.
• Fresh Herbs (Cilantro and Thai Basil): Bring bright, fragrant notes that are signature to Vietnamese cooking.
• Fish Sauce: Adds authentic umami and saltiness that elevates the overall taste.
• Black Pepper: For a subtle kick that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Cooked Vermicelli Noodles (optional): Adds a fun texture twist and bulkiness to the stuffing if desired.
• Oil for sautéing: To cook the filling lovingly until perfectly tender.

Variations for Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to tailor according to what you have in your pantry or your dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with these variations to make the dish your own.

• Vegetarian option: Swap meat with crumbled tofu or finely chopped mushrooms for a plant-based twist.
• Seafood lovers: Use chopped shrimp or minced fish for a coastal flair.
• Spice it up: Add finely chopped fresh chili or a pinch of chili flakes to the stuffing for some heat.
• Cheesy variation: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan inside before baking for a fusion-style touch.
• Herb substitutions: If Thai basil isn’t available, try swapping with mint or regular basil for different fresh notes.

How to Make Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Start by washing your tomatoes and carefully cutting off the tops. Scoop out the pulp and seeds with a spoon, being cautious not to pierce the tomato walls. Set the hollow tomatoes aside and reserve the pulp for the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and shallots until fragrant and slightly golden. Add ground meat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, stir in the reserved tomato pulp, fish sauce, black pepper, and finely chopped herbs. Cook until the mixture thickens and flavors meld.

Step 3: Stuff the Tomatoes

Fill each hollow tomato generously with the cooked meat mixture. Press gently to ensure they are packed well but not overstuffed to avoid breaking during baking.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the stuffed tomatoes upright in a baking dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender but not mushy. The filling should have a slightly caramelized top, bubbling with aroma.

Pro Tips for Making Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes

• Choose firm tomatoes: Helps maintain shape when baked and prevents leaking.
• Don’t overstuff: Leaves room for the filling to expand without bursting the tomato shell.
• Use fresh herbs last: Adding chopped herbs at the end preserves their vibrant flavor and aroma.
• Drain excess liquid: If the tomato pulp is too watery, squeeze out some juice so the stuffing doesn’t get soggy.
• Let it rest: Allow baked tomatoes to cool slightly before serving for easier handling.

How to Serve Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes

Garnishes

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to add aroma and crunch that complements the warm tomatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes pair wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice and a simple leafy green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to keep the meal balanced and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun dinner party idea, serve the stuffed tomatoes on a bed of lightly sautéed greens, or top them with a drizzle of spicy chili oil for an eye-catching pop of color and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making them easy to enjoy as next-day meals.

Freezing

These tomatoes don’t freeze well raw as the texture suffers, but the filling can be frozen separately. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and stuff fresh tomatoes before baking.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through to preserve flavor and texture without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes?

Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or even minced seafood work wonderfully and can be substituted based on your taste or dietary needs.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, by replacing the meat with tofu, mushrooms, or a blend of vegetables, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is generally mild, but you can adjust the heat by adding fresh chilies or chili flakes to the stuffing if you prefer a spicier flavor.

What’s the best way to choose tomatoes?

Look for medium-sized tomatoes that are firm yet ripe, without bruises, as they’ll hold the stuffing best during cooking.

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready, stuff the tomatoes and bake for a quick meal.

Final Thoughts

Vietnamese Stuffed Tomatoes offer a perfect blend of fresh, savory, and aromatic flavors that make mealtime truly special without a lot of fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this dish brings a vibrant touch of Vietnamese cuisine to your table. Give it a try—you might find it becoming your new favorite go-to recipe!

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