Tomatoes Farci

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350F.
2. 2
   Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scrape out the insides with a spoon.
3. 3
   Season the insides with salt and pepper and place on a baking pan.
4. 4
   Peel the onion, chop into 1/8- to 1/4-inch pieces, and place in a large bowl.
5. 5
   Tear the slices of bread into small pieces and add to the bowl along with the egg, ground beef, and Italian seasoning.
6. 6
   Season with salt and pepper and mix with your hands until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
7. 7
   Roll the meat into 1-inch balls and place 5 or 6 inside each tomato.
8. 8
   (You can just fill each tomato with the meat mixture, but they will take a lot longer to cook.)
9. 9
   Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the meatballs are browned and firm to the touch.
10. 10
    Meanwhile, place the water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
11. 11
    Add the rice, cover, and cook over low heat for 20 minutes, or until most of the water is absorbed.
12. 12
    Remove from the heat and let stand for 5 minutes, or until all of the water is absorbed.
13. 13
    To serve, place some of the rice on each plate and top with a stuffed tomato.