Name: Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed Pumpkin for Fall Gatherings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 25 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: Armenian
Ingredients: 1 small sugar or pie pumpkin (about 3 lbs / 1.3 kg); 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup (190g) long grain rice or wild rice blend; 2 cups (475 ml) vegetable broth or water; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup (40g) golden raisins; 1/4 cup (40g) dried apricots, chopped; 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts or almonds; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground allspice; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed Pumpkin is the perfect centerpiece for any autumn gathering. This hearty and beautiful dish combines roasted pumpkin with aromatic rice, nuts, and dried fruits, creating a comforting blend of flavors that is not only nourishing but also visually stunning. Inspired by Armenian cuisine, this cozy rice dish serves as a delightful vegetarian main or a hearty side that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed

This dish offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s a beautiful presentation, perfect for festive occasions. Second, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a comforting rice meal that nourishes the body. Third, the blend of sweet and savory flavors creates an irresistible gourmet experience. Additionally, this recipe is vegetarian, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. You’ll also enjoy the chic rice filling that elevates any dinner table, and it’s a simple yet elegant way to use seasonal pumpkins. Finally, preparing Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed is a fun activity for family and friends to enjoy together, enhancing the warmth of your gatherings.

Ingredients for Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed

Gather these items:

1 small sugar or pie pumpkin (about 3 lbs / 1.3 kg)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup (190g) long grain rice or wild rice blend
2 cups (475 ml) vegetable broth or water
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup (40g) golden raisins
1/4 cup (40g) dried apricots, chopped
1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts or almonds
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the top off the pumpkin, scoop out seeds, and rub inside and outside with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and place in a baking dish.

Step 2: Combine rice and vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook until tender — about 15–20 minutes for white rice or 40–45 for wild rice blend.
Step 3: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, then add garlic, cinnamon, and allspice; cook 1–2 minutes more.
Step 4: Combine cooked rice, onion mixture, raisins, apricots, and nuts in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Fill the hollowed pumpkin with the rice mixture and replace the top.
Step 6: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–30 minutes until tender and easily pierced with a knife.

Step 7: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with herbs, nuts, or pomegranate seeds if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed

Keep these in mind:

This dish serves as a vegetarian main or hearty side.
Adjust spices according to your preference.
Suitable for autumn gatherings and festive occasions.
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the stuffing.

Make sure the pumpkin is ripe but not overripe for the best texture.

Best Ways to Serve Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed

Here are some ideas for serving:

Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a cozy dinner.
Garnish with toasted nuts and herbs for an elegant touch.

How to Store and Reheat Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed

To store, let the stuffed pumpkin cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prep and leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed

What is elegant rice stuffing?

Elegant rice stuffing refers to a refined and sophisticated mixture of rice and various ingredients that enhance flavor and texture. This includes nuts, dried fruits, and spices, creating a delicious filling that elevates any dish.

Can I make Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice filling a day in advance. Just store it separately from the pumpkin and fill the pumpkin on the day you plan to bake it for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed?

To avoid mistakes, ensure the pumpkin is not too ripe, as it can become mushy. Also, properly season the rice filling and taste it before stuffing to achieve the best flavors.

Variations of Cozy Elegant Rice Stuffed You Can Try

Consider these variations for a twist on the traditional recipe:

Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein-rich option.
Incorporate different vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms into the stuffing.
Add feta or goat cheese for a creamy element.
Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits for unique flavor combinations.

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