Dish

Yemista

Stuffed Vegetables

Yemista is made by hollowing out vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini, and stuffing them with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. The stuffed vegetables are then baked in the oven until they are tender and golden brown. Yemista is a healthy and flavorful dish that is high in fiber and protein.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Balkan cuisine› Greek cuisine

Vegetable Dish

Origins and history

Yemista is a traditional dish from the Greek islands, and is often served as a main course or as a side dish. It is a popular dish during the summer months, when fresh vegetables are abundant. Yemista is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of vegetables and fillings.

Dietary considerations

Suitable for: Vegetarian. Suggestions: Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free rice..

Variations

There are many variations of yemista, depending on the region and the season. Some recipes call for the addition of ground meat or feta cheese, while others use different types of rice or herbs. Yemista can also be made with different types of vegetables, such as eggplant or potatoes.

Presentation and garnishing

To make yemista, be sure to use fresh, ripe vegetables. The key to a good yemista is to hollow out the vegetables carefully, so that they do not break or tear. The filling should be moist but not too wet, and should be seasoned well with herbs and spices. Yemista is typically served on a plate, with the stuffed vegetables arranged in a circle. It can be garnished with fresh parsley or chopped green onions.

Tips & Tricks

When baking, cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent the vegetables from drying out. Remove the foil for the last 15-20 minutes to allow the vegetables to brown.