Description
The Hairy Bikers’ Stuffed Marrow is a dish where a large marrow is hollowed out and filled with a flavorful stuffing, typically made from minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and herbs. The marrow is then baked until tender, allowing the stuffing to absorb all the flavors, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. This recipe is a simple yet comforting way to enjoy marrow, with the filling adding a savory depth that balances perfectly with the mild vegetable.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large marrow – halved lengthwise and seeds removed.
- 400g (14 oz) minced beef or pork – for a savory filling.
- 1 onion – finely chopped for added sweetness.
- 2 garlic cloves – minced for depth of flavor.
- 1 carrot – grated, to add texture and sweetness.
- 1 can (400g/14 oz) chopped tomatoes – provides moisture and richness to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste – enhances the tomato flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – for a fragrant, earthy note.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the vegetables.
- Salt and pepper – to season.
- Grated cheese – optional, for a golden, melted topping.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the stuffed marrow.
- Prepare the marrow: Cut the marrow in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds, creating a hollow for the filling. Lightly season the inside with salt and set aside.
- Cook the filling: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Once browned, remove the meat from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pan, add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and oregano. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to thicken, then return the browned meat to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the marrow: Place the marrow halves on a baking tray, and cut side up. Spoon the meat mixture into each half, pressing it down to pack the filling tightly.
- Bake the stuffed marrow: Cover the marrow with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes until the marrow is tender.
- Add cheese (optional): If using cheese, remove the foil, sprinkle grated cheese over the top of the filling, and return to the oven for 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve hot: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.