There’s something truly captivating about the way warm onions can embrace a flavorful filling, transporting your taste buds to the heart of the Middle East. Imagine walking into your kitchen, where the enticing aroma of stewed tomatoes and fragrant spices fills the air, hinting at a comforting feast just moments away. These Middle Eastern Style Stuffed Onions, known as Basal Mahshi, tell a story rich with tradition and are a delightful way to celebrate vegetarian cooking or introduce a meaty twist if you prefer.

Each tender layer of onion cradles a spiced mixture of rice and herbs, simmered to perfection in a savory tomato sauce that captures the essence of home-cooked love. Whether you’re seeking an impressive dish to share with friends or simply craving a satisfying meal that brings the warmth of Mediterranean cuisine to your table, this recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into this simple yet show-stopping dish that will not only impress but also bring a little piece of culinary adventure to your dining table!

Why are Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions a must-try?

Irresistible flavors: Each bite is a burst of vibrant spices that celebrate Middle Eastern cuisine.
Complex yet easy: The preparation is simple, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Vegetarian delight: A rich, hearty filling packed with fresh ingredients ensures a meat-free meal that satisfies.
Perfect for gatherings: Impress friends and family with this stunning dish that doubles as a conversation starter.
Customizable: Easily swap in ground meat or fresh herbs to suit your taste, keeping everyone happy.
Meal prep friendly: Leftovers can be stored for up to three days, making it great for busy weeks.
With these enticing qualities, you’re set for a culinary adventure right in your kitchen!

Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions Ingredients

For the Onions
• 3 pounds yellow onions – The main ingredient that provides an incredible structure and flavor.
• 1½ cups hot water – Helps to soften the onions in the microwave for easier handling.

For the Filling
• 2 cups cal-rose or sushi rice – This soft rice serves as the base for stuffing and needs to be soaked for tenderness.
• 2 roma tomatoes (medium size) – Adds freshness and moisture to the filling.
• ½ cup parsley (finely chopped) – Infuses herbal freshness and brightens the flavor.
• ¼ cup dill (finely chopped) – Gives the filling a unique and aromatic punch.
• 5 garlic cloves (minced) – Enhances the dish with a robust and pungent aroma.
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness and flavor; can be substituted with other oils.
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses – Provides a delightful sweetness and tang; honey can be a suitable substitute.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Offers acidity to balance and enhance the overall flavors.
• 2 teaspoons 7 spices (or Baharat) – An essential spice blend that adds depth and authenticity to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon dried mint (or ¼ cup fresh) – Brings in freshness and aromatic quality to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder – Adds to the savory taste profile and complexity.
• 1½ teaspoons garlic powder – Boosts the garlic flavor for a more intense taste.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Contributes further depth to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper – Offers mild heat; can be swapped with red pepper flakes for a similar kick.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Essential for seasoning and flavor enhancement.
• 2 teaspoons salt (or to taste) – A must-have for bringing all flavors together.

For the Sauce
• 30 oz tomato sauce (2 cans) – Serves as the rich base for cooking the stuffed onions.
• 3 cups hot water (for sauce) – Adjusts the sauce consistency to your liking.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Enriches the sauce with extra flavor and thickness.
• 1 teaspoon dried mint (for sauce) – Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable stock powder (or substitute salt, to taste) – Adds umami richness to the sauce.

With these vibrant ingredients at hand, you’re ready to embark on a culinary journey, crafting these delectable Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions!

How to Make Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions

Prep Onions: Start by cutting the ends of the onions and peeling them carefully. Slice deeply without splitting the layers, then microwave them in a bowl with hot water for about 7-8 minutes until they become soft. Let them cool down a bit.
Make Filling: Rinse the rice until the water runs clear and soak it in water for 15 minutes before draining. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a bowl, mix together the soaked rice, diced tomatoes, parsley, dill, garlic, and spices. Add the olive oil and pomegranate molasses for a delicious finish.
Stuff Onions: Gently separate the layers of the cooled onions. Take about 2 tablespoons of the filling and stuff each layer carefully, making sure to roll them up tightly. Place the stuffed onions in a single layer in a baking dish.
Prepare Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce, hot water, tomato paste, and dried mint. Pour this rich sauce over the stuffed onions and cover the dish tightly with parchment paper and foil.
Bake: Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the onions are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a drizzle of yogurt before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions?

Let your culinary creativity shine as you pair these delightful stuffed onions with complementary sides and beverages that elevate the meal experience!

Crispy Tabbouleh: A refreshing parsley salad with tomatoes and bulgur, offering a zesty counterbalance to the savory stuffing.
Creamy Yogurt Dip: Cool, tangy yogurt drizzled with olive oil and herbs provides a refreshing contrast, enhancing your bites.
Garlic Naan: Soft, warm naan bread is perfect for scooping up the stuffed onions and soaking in the rich tomato sauce.
Cumin-Spiced Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots seasoned with cumin bring warmth and an earthy sweetness to complement the spices.

Elevate your feast! A well-balanced meal featuring these flavors will transport your family straight to the heart of the Middle East, creating unforgettable memories around the table.

Pine Nut Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with toasted pine nuts adds crunch, perfectly harmonizing with the tender onions and filling.
Mint Tea: A refreshing glass of mint tea cleanses the palate and adds a delightful aromatic note to the dining experience.
Hummus and Pita: Creamy hummus on the side with warm pita provides a delightful and indulgent snack while enjoying the main course.

Make Ahead Options

These Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the stuffed onions up to 24 hours in advance by following a few simple steps. First, complete the stuffing process and place the wrapped onions in your baking dish. To maintain their quality, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven to 375°F, remove the cover, and pour the sauce ingredients over the top. Bake them as instructed, and you’ll enjoy a delightful meal bursting with flavor, all made with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water for moisture.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap stuffed onions individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, covered, to maintain moisture. You can also microwave them for a quick meal.

Serving Tip: Enjoy your Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions warm, perhaps with a refreshing side salad or yogurt for added creaminess!

Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists and swaps to make this dish even more your own!

Sweet Onion Swap: Use larger sweet onions for a milder flavor and added sweetness in each bite.
Meat Up: Incorporate ground beef or lamb into the filling for a heartier, protein-packed version.
Herb Boost: Add fresh basil or mint to the filling for an aromatic punch that brightens every bite.
Spice it Up: Increase the amount of Aleppo pepper or mix in some smoked paprika for a bolder flavor and a smoky edge.
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free rendition, swap rice for quinoa or a gluten-free grain of your choice.
Creamy Finish: Drizzle with tahini sauce or yogurt before serving for a creamy contrast that balances the dish’s spices.
Veggie Delight: Toss in diced bell peppers or zucchini into the filling for extra veggies and flavor variety.
Sauce Enhancement: Blend in some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to bring an extra kick to the tomato sauce.

Expert Tips for Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions

Soft Onions: Always microwave your onions with care; too long can lead to splitting, which makes stuffing tricky.
Flavor Integration: Let the spice mixture sit for a few minutes before stuffing. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the stuffing in your Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions.
Rice Rinsing: Wash the rice until clear to remove excess starch; this prevents it from becoming sticky when cooked.
Layer Separation: Be gentle when separating onion layers; a sharp knife can help create clean cuts without damaging them, ensuring perfect rolls.
Cooking Sauce Texture: Adjust the sauce’s consistency by adding more or less hot water as needed. A well-balanced sauce enhances the overall flavor.
Meat Option: For a meatier option, feel free to add ground beef or lamb into the filling, boosting the protein and adding another layer of deliciousness.

Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions Recipe FAQs

What type of onions should I use for Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions?
Absolutely! Yellow onions are the best choice as they provide a balance of sweetness and flavor, which enhances the dish. You can also experiment with larger sweet onions for a milder taste.

How should I store leftovers of Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions?
Very simple! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat them in the microwave or on the stove with a little added water to keep them moist.

Can I freeze Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap each stuffed onion tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

What should I do if my onions split while microwaving?
If your onions start to split, don’t worry! Always keep an eye on them while in the microwave. If they do split, you can still use them by carefully rolling the stuffing in intact layers. Try reducing the microwaving time next time, aiming for a range of 6-7 minutes to avoid this issue.

Are there any dietary considerations for Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions?
Absolutely! This dish is vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free by using specific rice varieties. If you’re serving it to guests with allergies, be sure to let them know about the pomegranate molasses and spices used, especially if they have sensitivities.

Can I customize the filling for Middle Eastern Stuffed Onions?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add ground meat like beef or lamb for a heartier option, or mix in different vegetables for a personalized touch. Just ensure they are finely chopped to blend well with the rice and spices!