**Petits Farcis: A Delightful Culinary Journey Through Provencal Cuisine**
In the heart of Provence, where the sun-kissed hills meet the azure skies, lies a culinary treasure that embodies the region's rich history and vibrant flavors: Petits Farcis. These delicate stuffed vegetables, a testament to Provencal ingenuity, are a symphony of textures and tastes that have captivated palates for generations. Embark on a culinary journey as we delve into the world of Petits Farcis, exploring variations that showcase the diversity and creativity of this beloved dish. From classic recipes brimming with herbs and spices to innovative interpretations that introduce unexpected ingredients, discover the essence of Provencal cuisine through these delectable stuffed delights.
PETITS FARCIS - PROVENçE STUFFED BAKED VEGETABLES
These stuffed vegetables are typical fare from Provençe - the region that hugs the Mediterranean coastline in the South of France. Vegetables, olives and olive oil are used in abundance in Provençe, and this recipe really captures the sun and fragrance of this much-loved area! There are numerous recipes for these famous stuffed vegetables, but this one is my favourite.......all that is needed is crusty bread and a glass of wine, et voila - an excellent light dinner or summer lunch. I have stipulated baby "round" courgettes (zucchini) and tomatoes in this recipe, but you can also use onions and aubergines (eggplant) as well.
Provided by French Tart
Categories One Dish Meal
Time 1h25m
Yield 8-10 petits farcis, 4-5 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Pre-heat oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6.
- Grease a roasting tin or a tian (earthenware dish) with some olive oil.
- Cut the tops of the courgettes and tomatoes, keeping the lids.
- Using a pointed spoon, hollow out centres of the courgettes and tomatoes - leaving about 1/2" thickness as the "container".
- Place the courgettes and tomatoes into the oiled tin or tian.
- Chop up the tomato and courgette flesh finely and place into a bowl.
- Heat half of the oil in a large frying pan, wok or skillet; add the onions, garlic, and cook over a medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the sausage meat, and break it up well - continue to cook for a further 5 minutes or until the sausage meat has browned.
- Add the chopped courgette and tomato flesh and continue to cook for 3-5 minutes.
- Add the tomato puree and stirring occasionally, cook for a further 10 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and add the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese and the chopped parsley - stir well.
- Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Spoon the mixture into the vegetables - and then place the tops back on top of the courgettes and tomatoes.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over and around the stuffed vegetables and then pour in the white wine.
- Bake for 45 - 60 minutes, until well browned and the vegetables are soft, but still holding their shape.
- Serve tepid or at room temperature, with the cooking liquor drizzled around the petits farcis & some chopped parsley or basil sprinkled over them. All that is needed then, is some crusty bread, good wine, good company and maybe some sun!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 1067.6, Fat 78.3, SaturatedFat 24.1, Cholesterol 171, Sodium 1848.1, Carbohydrate 42.3, Fiber 6.7, Sugar 13.2, Protein 47
PETITS FARCIS
Steps:
- 1. Cut the top one-third off the onions, squashes, tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers, and set aside to use as caps. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise. With a melon baller or an espresso spoon, scoop out the inside of each vegetable the best you can. Leave the walls about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. Set the vegetables aside.
- 2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). To make the stuffing, in a small frying pan, sweat the onion in the oil over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, or until translucent. Remove from the heat.
- 3. In a bowl, combine the veal, pork, cooked onion, egg, bread, Parmesan, thyme, fennel seeds, garlic, chile flakes, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Mix together using your hands; it should have the texture of a raw meatball.
- 4. Divide the meat mixture among the vegetables, stuffing it carefully and deeply inside each one. Stand the vegetables, without their caps, in an oiled gratin dish or cake pan. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meat is cooked but not colored. Remove from the oven, top each vegetable with its cap, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the tops are getting crispy and the meat is sizzling.
- 5. Remove from the oven and drizzle olive oil on top. Serve lukewarm.
Tips:
- Choose the freshest vegetables possible. This will ensure that your petits farcis are packed with flavor.
- Blanch the vegetables before stuffing them. This will help to soften them and make them easier to roll.
- Use a variety of herbs and spices to flavor your stuffing. This will give your petits farcis a complex and delicious flavor.
- Be careful not to overstuff the vegetables. Otherwise, they will be difficult to roll and will fall apart during cooking.
- Cook the petits farcis in a flavorful broth. This will help to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Serve the petits farcis hot or cold. They are delicious either way!
Conclusion:
Petits farcis are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal, or for a special occasion dinner. With so many different variations to choose from, there is sure to be a recipe that everyone will enjoy. So next time you are looking for a new and exciting dish to try, give petits farcis a try. You won't be disappointed!
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