Macedonian-style Stuffed Celery

Ingredients

In the original Italian dish, Sedano alla molisana, the celery is typically blanched and served with a simple dressing. However, in this Macedonian adaptation, the celery is stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs. The spices used in the stuffing are also specific to Macedonian cuisine, adding a unique twist to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Sedano alla molisana, so you can check it out.

• 8 large celery stalks 8 large celery stalks
• 250g (9 oz) ground beef 250g (9 oz) ground beef
• 250g (9 oz) ground pork 250g (9 oz) ground pork
• 1/2 cup (100g) rice 1/2 cup (100g) rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Wash the celery stalks and trim off the ends. Cut each stalk into 3-inch pieces.
3. 3.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, rice, onion, garlic, parsley, paprika, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. 4.
   Stuff each celery stalk with the meat and rice mixture, pressing it firmly into the hollow part of the stalk.
5. 5.
   Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffed celery stalks and cook for 5 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides.
6. 6.
   Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. 7.
   Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the celery is tender and the stuffing is cooked through.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Celery — Make sure to wash the celery thoroughly and trim off any tough or fibrous parts before stuffing.
• Ground beef and pork — Use lean ground meat for a healthier option. If desired, you can also substitute with ground chicken or turkey.
• Rice — Rinse the rice before using to remove excess starch and ensure a fluffy texture.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavors, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the stuffing mixture.
• Serve the Macedonian-style Stuffed Celery with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for a creamy touch.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, either cold or reheated.

Serving advice

Serve the Macedonian-style Stuffed Celery as an appetizer or a side dish. It pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed celery stalks on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or paprika for an attractive presentation.