Peruvian Style Stuffed Tomatoes With Aji Sauce

There’s something special about the vibrant flavors and colors that Peruvian cuisine brings to the table. From the Andes to the Amazon, each dish tells a story of rich tradition and fresh ingredients. One such dish that captures the essence of Peruvian cooking is Peruvian Style Stuffed Tomatoes With Aji Sauce. This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with a savory and spicy filling, all topped with a zesty aji sauce that elevates the dish to new culinary heights. Let’s dive into the world of Peruvian flavors and learn how to create this delicious and colorful dish.

Ingredients:
– 4 large beefsteak tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Aji Sauce:
– 1 yellow chili pepper, seeded and diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and gently scoop out the seeds and flesh with a spoon, leaving the outer shell intact. Reserve the pulp for later use.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, diced bell pepper, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
4. Stuff each hollowed-out tomato with the quinoa and black bean mixture, pressing down gently to fill the tomatoes completely.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes in the prepared baking dish and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender.
6. While the tomatoes are baking, prepare the aji sauce. In a blender, combine the diced yellow chili pepper, mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and well combined.
7. Once the tomatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the tops of each tomato.
8. Drizzle the aji sauce over the stuffed tomatoes and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
9. Enjoy your Peruvian Style Stuffed Tomatoes With Aji Sauce warm, savoring the burst of flavors and textures in each bite.

Peruvian cuisine is a celebration of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and vibrant colors, and this recipe for Stuffed Tomatoes With Aji Sauce perfectly encapsulates that spirit. It’s a satisfying dish that offers a delightful combination of savory, spicy, and tangy notes, sure to become a favorite at your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this Peruvian-inspired recipe is a must-try for anyone who appreciates good food and great company. So gather your loved ones, share a meal, and immerse yourself in the delicious world of Peruvian cooking.