Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow is a delicious and hearty dish, featuring a large marrow (a type of squash) stuffed with a savory mixture of minced beef, onion, garlic, herbs, and cheese. It’s a great way to use up a bumper crop of marrows or to enjoy a seasonal vegetable in a new and exciting way. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be prepared in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
In this article, I will show you how to make Mary Berry’s Stuffed Marrow step by step, with tips and tricks along the way.
What is Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow Recipe?
Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow is a simple and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It consists of a large marrow that is halved, scooped out, and filled with a flavorful mixture of minced beef, onion, garlic, herbs, and cheese. The stuffed marrow is then baked in the oven until the marrow is tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.
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What Makes Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow Special?
There are many reasons to love Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow, such as:
- Comforting and Nutritious: It serves as both a comforting meal and a nutritious option, packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Economical and Eco-friendly: Utilizing simple, cost-effective ingredients, it’s an excellent way to reduce waste and make the most of seasonal produce.
- Versatile and Customizable: The recipe can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs, making it a flexible addition to your cooking repertoire.
- Family-friendly: Its ease of preparation and broad appeal make it a hit among both adults and children, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow
To make Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 large marrow (about 1.5 kg)
- Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 500 g of lean minced beef
- 2 teaspoons of dried mixed herbs
- 2 tablespoons of tomato puree
- 150 ml of beef stock
- 100 g of grated cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow
To make Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow, follow these steps:
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the marrow
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cut the marrow in half lengthwise scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon. Discard the seeds and pulp, or save them for another use.
- Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the cut sides of the marrow and place them cut side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the marrow for 30 minutes, or until slightly softened.
Step 2: Make the filling
- While the marrow is baking, heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes, or until soft and golden.
- Add the minced beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, for 10 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Stir in the mixed herbs, tomato puree, and beef stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Stuff the marrow and bake
- Remove the marrow from the oven and carefully flip them over so that the cut sides are facing up.
- Spoon the filling evenly into the hollows of the marrow, pressing it down lightly.
- Sprinkle the cheese over the top of the filling.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the marrow is tender.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy
- Transfer the stuffed marrow to a serving platter and garnish with some chopped parsley if desired.
- Cut into slices and serve hot, with a green salad or some crusty bread on the side.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow?
The richness and robust flavors of Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow make it a centerpiece dish that is incredibly satisfying on its own. However, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal to a full dining experience. To balance the dish’s hearty nature, consider these accompaniments:
- Fresh Green Salad: A light salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette or a creamy yogurt dressing can introduce a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness, offering a crisp texture and a tangy flavor that cleanses the palate.
- Crusty Bread or Rolls: Serve alongside to soak up the savory juices, ensuring that none of the delicious flavors go to waste. The bread’s texture and substance make it an ideal companion.
- Roasted or Mashed Potatoes: These starchy sides can complement the marrow by adding another layer of comfort, with the choice of smooth mashed or crispy roasted potatoes providing a delightful textural contrast.
- Colorful Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables not only add a splash of color to your plate but also introduce a variety of flavors and nutrients, making the meal more balanced and visually appealing.
Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow
Achieving a flawless Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow requires attention to detail and a few key techniques:
- Selecting the Marrow: Opt for a large, firm marrow with smooth, unblemished skin. This ensures the best texture and flavor, as softer, wrinkled, or bruised marrows might be past their prime.
- Preparation: Employ a sharp knife and a stable cutting board for halving the marrow, taking care to avoid slips. Scoop out seeds and pulp with a spoon or melon baller, which can be repurposed for soups or compost, enriching the dish’s sustainability.
- Seasoning: Generously season the inside of the marrow with salt and pepper before baking. This step not only seasons the vegetable but also helps to draw out moisture, concentrating the flavors.
- Managing the Filling: After browning the minced beef, be sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy. Adjust the seasoning with additional herbs, spices, or sauces to suit your taste, enhancing the filling’s complexity and depth.
- Cheese Topping: Distribute the cheese evenly over the filling, extending to the edges of the marrow halves. This ensures a deliciously melted and slightly crispy cheese layer that adds both flavor and texture, while also protecting the edges of the marrow from drying out during baking.
Variations of Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow
Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some variations of Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow that you can try:
- Vegetarian Stuffed Marrow: Replace the minced beef with cooked lentils, beans, or mushrooms, and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock. You can also add some nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
- Cheesy Stuffed Marrow: Use a mixture of different cheeses, such as mozzarella, parmesan, or feta, for the topping, and add some cream cheese or ricotta cheese to the filling for extra creaminess.
- Spicy Stuffed Marrow: Add some chili powder, cumin, paprika, or cayenne pepper to the filling, and use some salsa, hot sauce, or chutney for extra heat and flavor.
How to Store Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow Leftovers
Proper storage of Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow leftovers ensures that you can enjoy this delicious dish for days after the initial meal. Here are the steps to follow:
Cooling Down
- Allow the stuffed marrow leftovers to cool to room temperature before storing. Do not leave them out for more than 2 hours to avoid bacterial growth.
Transfer to a Container
- Place the cooled leftovers in an airtight container. If you have large pieces, you might need to cut them into smaller portions to fit.
Refrigeration
- Store the container in the refrigerator. The stuffed marrow should be consumed within 3-4 days for the best quality and safety.
Freezing (Optional)
- For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed marrow. Wrap it tightly in a freezer-safe wrap or place it in a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen stuffed marrow can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Reheat Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow Leftovers
Reheating Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow correctly will help retain its texture and flavor. Here’s how:
Oven Reheating
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). An oven is preferred for reheating to maintain the texture of the marrow and the filling.
- Prepare for Reheating: Transfer the stuffed marrow into an oven-safe dish. If it was stored in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before reheating.
- Cover with Foil: To prevent drying out, lightly cover the stuffed marrow with aluminum foil.
- Reheat: Place in the oven and heat for 20-25 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed. The time may vary based on the size of the stuffed marrow and oven differences.
- Check Temperature: Ensure the center of the filling reaches at least 74°C (165°F), indicating it is safely reheated.
Microwave Reheating (For Quickness)
- Prepare: Place a portion of the stuffed marrow on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover: Lightly cover with a microwave-safe lid or a piece of kitchen towel to retain moisture.
- Reheat: Use a medium power setting to reheat for 2-3 minutes, then check if it’s warmed through. Continue heating in 30-second bursts if necessary, as microwave power levels can vary.
- Let Stand: Let it stand for a minute before checking the temperature, ensuring it’s evenly reheated.
Nutrition value per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 253 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 113 mg
- Sodium: 296 mg
- Potassium: 709 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Vitamin A: 4060 IU
- Vitamin C: 29 mg
- Calcium: 224 mg
- Iron: 3 mg
FAQs
Can Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow can be prepared ahead of time. You can assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before you plan to bake it. This makes it a convenient option for meal planning or preparing for guests. If baking from chilled, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I Make Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt Mary Berry’s Stuffed Marrow to a vegetarian version by substituting the minced beef with a mixture of lentils, beans, or finely chopped mushrooms. Ensure to use vegetable stock instead of beef stock to maintain the vegetarian integrity of the dish. Adding nuts or seeds can introduce an additional texture and nutritional boost.
How Long Does It Take to Prepare and Cook Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow?
The total preparation and cooking time for Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. This includes preparing the marrow, making the filling, stuffing the marrow, and baking. It’s a straightforward process that results in a wholesome and hearty meal.
Is Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow Freezable?
Mary Berry Stuffed Marrow is suitable for freezing either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, prepare the dish up to the point of baking and freeze. If freezing after baking, cool the leftovers completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. The stuffed marrow can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Stuffed Marrow stands out as a quintessential British dish that marries simplicity with hearty flavors, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or special occasions. Its versatility in ingredients allows for customization to suit various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can savor this comforting dish.
By following the straightforward preparation steps and utilizing tips for perfect execution, you’re guaranteed to deliver a dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as a delicious leftover, Mary Berry’s Stuffed Marrow is a testament to the joy of cooking and the warmth it brings to the table.