METHOD
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prepare the tomatoes
Rinse the tomatoes under running water and pat dry with a paper towel. Cut the top of each tomato and set aside. Using a spoon, scoop the flesh of the tomato out and place it in a bowl. Place the tomatoes into an ovenproof dish. Sprinkle the tomatoes with salt and place cut-side down into a sieve. Place the sieve atop a large bowl to catch those tomato juices.
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stuffing
Chop the flesh of the tomatoes and add to a bowl. Peel and dice the onion. Chop the fresh herbs, dried apricots, and sun-dried tomatoes. Place a pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and onion and sauté for 3 - 4 minutes. Add the apricots, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and garlic. Stir and sauté for 2 minutes. Rinse the rice under running water and add to a pan. Sauté for 2 - 3 minutes, then add the chopped tomato flesh, herbs, and spices. Pour in 80ml (1/3 cup) of water. Stir and cook for 8 minutes.
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bake and serve
Place a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat it to 200 °C / 390 °F. Stuff the tomatoes with the prepared filling. Arrange the cubed cheese on top. Pour a tablespoon of water over the stuffing and close with the tomato tops. Lightly drizzle with olive oil. Place a sheet of parchment paper on top of the tomatoes and place in the oven. Bake for 5 minutes at 200 °C / 390 °F. Remove the parchment paper and bake for 10 - 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven, set aside a few minutes, then serve.