Stuffed Tomatoes Kodava Style

Ingredients

In the original Croatian recipe, the tomatoes are stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs. However, in this adapted Kodava version, the stuffing is vegetarian and features a blend of grated coconut, roasted spices, and fresh herbs. This change not only caters to the dietary preferences of the Kodava cuisine, but also adds a unique flavor profile to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Nadjevene rajčice na primorski, so you can check it out.

• 6 ripe tomatoes 6 ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup (240ml) grated coconut 1 cup (240ml) grated coconut
• 1 tablespoon Kodava spice blend (roasted and ground) 1 tablespoon Kodava spice blend (roasted and ground)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 sprig curry leaves 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 14g, 8g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Cut off the tops of the tomatoes and carefully scoop out the pulp and seeds, leaving the tomato shells intact. Set aside.
3. 3.
   In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds and let them splutter.
4. 4.
   Add the chopped onion, green chilies, curry leaves, and a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
5. 5.
   Add the grated coconut and roasted Kodava spice blend to the pan. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove the pan from heat and let the stuffing mixture cool slightly.
7. 7.
   Stuff each tomato with the coconut and spice mixture, pressing it gently to fill the cavity completely.
8. 8.
   Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the stuffing is lightly browned.
9. 9.
   Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut — Use freshly grated coconut for the best flavor and texture.
• Kodava spice blend — If you don't have access to a pre-made blend, you can make your own by roasting and grinding a combination of coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, and dried red chilies.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add more green chilies to the stuffing mixture.
• Serve the Stuffed Tomatoes with a side of coconut chutney or yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
• If you prefer a softer texture, you can blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for a minute before stuffing them.

Serving advice

Serve the Stuffed Tomatoes Kodava Style as a main course with steamed rice or traditional Kodava breads like akki roti or nool puttu. Accompany it with a side of coconut chutney or raita to balance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Stuffed Tomatoes on a platter, garnished with fresh coriander leaves. The vibrant red color of the tomatoes and the aromatic stuffing will make for an enticing presentation.