Nutritious Stuffed Onions with Lean Turkey (Sogan Dolma Style)

When it comes to comforting yet wholesome meals, few dishes capture both tradition and nutrition as beautifully as Sogan Dolma. This lighter version swaps rich meats for lean turkey while still preserving the deep, aromatic flavors of the Balkan classic.

Tender onion layers are gently filled with a savory blend of turkey, rice, and herbs, then simmered in a delicate tomato-infused broth. It’s hearty enough to satisfy, yet balanced enough to fit into a health-conscious lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite or a dinner that feels both traditional and modern, these stuffed onions are a dish worth savoring.

Ingredients

• 5 large onions (for stuffing)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 400g lean ground turkey
• 100g uncooked white rice
• 30g tomato paste
• 30g fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 10g fresh mint, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 30ml olive oil
• 5g sweet paprika
• 2g ground cumin
• 2g ground allspice
• 500ml vegetable broth or water
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the onions: Cut off top and root ends of large onions. Make a vertical incision, blanch for 15–20 minutes, then gently separate layers.
2. Make the filling: Mix turkey, rice, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, mint, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, allspice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff the onions: Place spoonfuls of filling on softened onion layers, roll carefully, and repeat until all filling is used.
4. Arrange in pot: Add 15ml olive oil to a deep pot, arrange stuffed onions snugly, filling gaps with onion trimmings if needed.
5. Simmer: Mix remaining olive oil with broth, season lightly, pour over onions. Place a plate on top to keep submerged. Simmer covered for 45–50 minutes until rice is cooked and onions are tender.
6. Serve: Remove plate, garnish with lemon wedges if desired, and enjoy warm.

Tips & Substitutions

• For a vegetarian option, replace turkey with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms.
• If you prefer a richer taste, swap vegetable broth with chicken broth.
• Add a sprinkle of chili flakes to the filling for a gentle kick of heat.

Nutrition

Approximate per serving:

• Calories: 345
• Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g

Related Recipe

See the original recipe: "Nutritious Stuffed Onions with Lean Turkey (Sogan Dolma Style)"

This dish is a celebration of flavor, balance, and tradition. Try it for your next family dinner, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with friends or on social media. Happy cooking!