How To Make Easy Stuffed Marrow

SERVES 4. This is more of a supper dish than an accompaniment.

1. Step 1:

   Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 4.

2. Step 2:

   Cut the marrow three-quarters of the way up rather than in half, and scoop out the seeds so you have a larger channel in which to contain the meat. The marrow should now have a boat shape.

3. Step 3:

   Heat half the butter in a frying pan and fry the onion for 2–3 minutes. Add the garlic and minced beef and cook until the meat is brown.

4. Step 4:

   Put the meat mixture into a heatproof bowl and add the breadcrumbs, basil and canned tomatoes. Season and stir well.

5. Step 5:

   Fill the inside of the marrow with the meat filling and dot with the remaining butter.

6. Step 6:

   Place in a roasting pan and cover with foil. Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, and serve hot.