Stuffed Lemons Recipe

This filling is hearty, protein-rich, and full of Mediterranean flavors. Cooking it inside lemons enhances the dish with a bright citrusy aroma.  

Ingredients: 

– 8 lemons

– ½ cup tri-coloured quinoa, rinsed 

– ½ cup canned chickpeas, drained   

– 1 cup kale, finely chopped  

– 2 tbsp olive oil

– 1 small onion, finely chopped  

-1 tsp ground cumin

– ½ tsp ground paprika

– ½ tsp ground coriander

– ½ tsp salt (or to taste)  

– ¼ tsp black pepper

– ½ tsp sumac

– 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped  

– ¼ cup vegetable broth

Method: 

1. Prepare the Lemons

   – Slice the tops off the lemons and carefully scoop out the pulp with a spoon.  

   – Strain the juice from the pulp and set aside for later use.  

2. Cook the Quinoa

   – In a small pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.  

   – Add quinoa, reduce heat, and simmer for about 12 minutes until fluffy. Set aside.  

3. Sauté the Aromatics & Kale

   – In a pan, heat  olive oil over medium heat.  

   – Add onions and cook until soft and golden.  

   – Stir in cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute.  

   – Toss in kale and sauté until wilted. 

4. Mix the Filling

   – In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, and sautéed mixture.  

   – Add sumac and fresh dill.  

   – Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.  

5. Stuff the Lemons & Cook

   – Fill each lemon with the quinoa mixture, pressing it in gently.  

   – Place the lemons upright in a tagine or a deep pan.  

   – Pour vegetable broth + 2 tbsp reserved lemon juice around (not over) the lemons.  

   – Cover and simmer on low heat for around 30 minutes.  

6. Serve & Enjoy

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