Baked Tomato & Feta Rice Recipe

Baked Tomato and Feta Rice has become a surprising weeknight staple in our home. Initially, I was drawn to its simplicity – a handful of ingredients, minimal fuss, and a promise of vibrant Mediterranean flavors. What I didn’t expect was how quickly it would become a family favorite. Even my usually picky eaters devour this dish with gusto, the creamy feta melting into the sweet roasted tomatoes and perfectly cooked rice creating a symphony of textures and tastes. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and exciting, healthy yet indulgent. From busy school nights to relaxed weekend lunches, this Baked Tomato and Feta Rice has proven to be incredibly versatile and consistently delicious. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a flavor-packed experience that brings everyone to the table.

Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavorful Baked Tomato & Feta Rice

The beauty of Baked Tomato and Feta Rice lies in its simplicity, but the quality of each ingredient plays a crucial role in elevating this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Choosing the right components is not just about following a list; it’s about understanding how each element contributes to the final symphony of flavors and textures. Let’s delve into each ingredient, exploring why they are essential and how to select the best for your culinary creation.

• Long-Grain Rice: The Hearty Base Long-grain rice, such as Basmati or Jasmine, is the preferred choice for this recipe due to its ability to cook up fluffy and separate, providing the perfect textural contrast to the soft tomatoes and creamy feta. Unlike short-grain rice, which tends to become sticky and clumpy, long-grain varieties maintain their individual grains, ensuring a delightful mouthfeel in every bite.
  • Basmati Rice: Known for its fragrant aroma and delicate, elongated grains, Basmati rice adds a touch of elegance to the dish. Its nutty flavor profile complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the saltiness of the feta beautifully. Look for aged Basmati rice for the best results, as it tends to be less starchy and cooks up even fluffier.
  • Jasmine Rice: With its slightly floral aroma and soft, slightly sticky texture (though still long-grain), Jasmine rice offers a different dimension. It absorbs flavors readily, making it an excellent canvas for the tomato and feta infusion. Choose fragrant Jasmine rice for a more aromatic dish.
  • Brown Rice (Optional Variation): For a nuttier flavor and added nutritional benefits, you can substitute brown rice. However, be mindful that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You’ll need to adjust the baking time and liquid ratio accordingly (typically adding about 1 cup more liquid and increasing baking time by 20-30 minutes). Brown rice will impart a chewier texture and a more robust, earthy flavor.
• Ripe Tomatoes: The Star of the Show Tomatoes are the undisputed star of this recipe, providing the sweet, juicy, and slightly acidic base that defines its character. The quality and ripeness of your tomatoes will directly impact the overall flavor. Opt for tomatoes that are vibrantly colored, slightly soft to the touch, and fragrant.
  • Roma Tomatoes: These are often a reliable choice due to their meaty flesh and lower water content. They roast beautifully, concentrating their sweetness and developing a rich, intense tomato flavor.
  • Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: For an extra burst of sweetness and visual appeal, consider using cherry or grape tomatoes. They roast quickly and become incredibly juicy and flavorful. You can leave them whole or halve them depending on your preference.
  • Heirloom Tomatoes (When in Season): If you have access to heirloom tomatoes during their peak season, they will elevate this dish to a new level of flavor complexity. Their diverse colors, shapes, and flavor profiles (from sweet and fruity to tangy and earthy) will add depth and nuance.
  • Canned Diced Tomatoes (Pantry Staple): In a pinch, or during off-season, high-quality canned diced tomatoes can be a suitable substitute. Choose diced tomatoes in juice, not puree, and drain off excess liquid before using. While canned tomatoes lack the fresh vibrancy of ripe tomatoes, they still provide a good tomato base flavor. You may want to add a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of canned tomatoes.
• Feta Cheese: The Creamy, Salty Counterpoint Feta cheese is the essential creamy and salty element that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and adds a delightful tang. The type and quality of feta you choose will significantly impact the final taste and texture.
  • Block Feta in Brine: This is the preferred type of feta for this recipe. Feta packed in brine is typically more flavorful, creamier, and less dry than pre-crumbled feta. The brine helps to preserve its moisture and saltiness. Look for feta made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk for the most authentic flavor.
  • Pre-Crumbled Feta (Convenience Option): While convenient, pre-crumbled feta often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can result in a drier and less flavorful cheese. If using pre-crumbled feta, consider adding a tablespoon or two of olive oil to help it melt more smoothly and retain moisture.
  • Flavor Variations: Explore different types of feta for subtle flavor variations. French feta tends to be milder and creamier, while Bulgarian feta is often saltier and tangier. Experiment to find your preferred flavor profile.
• Olive Oil: The Mediterranean Elixir Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is not just a cooking medium; it’s a flavor enhancer in Mediterranean cuisine. It adds richness, fruitiness, and a peppery note to the dish. Use a good quality EVOO for the best flavor and health benefits.
  • Flavor Profile: Choose an EVOO with a flavor profile that you enjoy. Fruity, peppery, or grassy notes can all complement the tomatoes and feta.
  • Finishing Drizzle: Don’t be shy with the olive oil! A generous drizzle both before and after baking enhances the flavors and adds a luxurious touch.
• Garlic: The Aromatic Backbone Garlic adds a pungent, savory depth that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the saltiness of the feta. Fresh garlic cloves are essential for the best flavor.
  • Fresh Garlic Cloves: Use fresh garlic cloves for the most intense and aromatic flavor. Mince or thinly slice the garlic depending on your preference. Slicing allows for a milder garlic flavor, while mincing releases more of its pungent compounds.
  • Roasted Garlic (Optional): For a sweeter, mellower garlic flavor, consider roasting a whole head of garlic and squeezing the roasted cloves into the rice mixture.
• Dried Herbs: The Aromatic Accents Dried herbs like oregano and basil bring a classic Mediterranean aroma and flavor to the dish. They enhance the overall complexity and create a fragrant, inviting aroma as the rice bakes.
  • Dried Oregano: Oregano provides a slightly peppery and earthy flavor that is quintessential in Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Dried Basil: Basil adds a sweet, slightly peppery, and aromatic note that complements tomatoes beautifully.
  • Dried Thyme (Optional): For a more herbaceous and earthy flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried thyme.
  • Fresh Herbs (Garnish): Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano, added as a garnish after baking, brighten the dish and provide a fresh, vibrant finish.
• Vegetable Broth or Water: The Cooking Liquid Vegetable broth adds a layer of savory flavor to the rice as it cooks. Water can be used as a substitute, but broth will enhance the overall depth of flavor.
  • Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth: Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish, especially considering the saltiness of the feta cheese.
  • Chicken Broth (Non-Vegetarian Option): If you are not strictly vegetarian, chicken broth can also be used for a richer flavor.
  • Water (Simple Option): Water will work in a pinch, but the flavor will be less complex. You may want to add a bouillon cube or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor if using water.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Seasoning Essentials Salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients. Be mindful of the saltiness of the feta when seasoning.
  • Kosher Salt or Sea Salt: These salts are preferred by many cooks for their pure flavor and ease of use.
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper has a more pungent and aromatic flavor than pre-ground pepper.

By carefully selecting each ingredient and understanding its role in the recipe, you can create a Baked Tomato and Feta Rice that is not just simple to make but also bursting with flavor and truly satisfying. Don’t underestimate the power of quality ingredients in transforming a simple dish into a culinary delight.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Baked Tomato & Feta Rice

Creating this delicious Baked Tomato & Feta Rice is remarkably straightforward. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the hands-off baking method. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve perfectly cooked rice infused with the vibrant flavors of roasted tomatoes and creamy feta.

1. Preheat Your Oven & Prepare the Baking Dish:
   • Preheating: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the rice dish inside, promoting even cooking and optimal flavor development.
   • Baking Dish: Choose a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe dish. The size is important to ensure the rice cooks evenly and there’s enough surface area for the tomatoes to roast properly. Lightly grease the baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
2. Combine the Ingredients in the Baking Dish:
   • Rice: Add the long-grain rice (Basmati or Jasmine) to the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish. There’s no need to rinse the rice for this baking method.
   • Tomatoes: Arrange the tomatoes on top of the rice. If using Roma tomatoes, halve or quarter them lengthwise. If using cherry or grape tomatoes, you can leave them whole or halve them. Distribute them evenly over the rice for consistent roasting.
   • Feta Cheese: Crumble the block of feta cheese over the tomatoes and rice. Distribute it fairly evenly, allowing it to melt and infuse the entire dish with its creamy, salty goodness. Larger crumbles will create pockets of melted feta, while smaller crumbles will disperse more evenly.
   • Garlic: Scatter the minced or sliced garlic over the tomatoes and feta. Ensure it’s distributed so that the garlic flavor permeates the dish as it bakes.
   • Dried Herbs: Sprinkle the dried oregano and dried basil evenly over the ingredients in the baking dish. These herbs will infuse the rice and vegetables with their aromatic Mediterranean flavors as they bake.
   • Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil generously over all the ingredients in the baking dish. Ensure that everything is lightly coated in olive oil. This will help with roasting, prevent the rice from drying out, and enhance the flavors.
   • Salt and Pepper: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember that feta cheese is already salty, so start with a moderate amount of salt and adjust to taste after baking if needed.
3. Pour in the Liquid and Bake:
   • Vegetable Broth (or Water): Pour the vegetable broth (or water) over the ingredients in the baking dish. Ensure that the liquid is evenly distributed. The liquid should just cover the rice and other ingredients.
   • Cover Tightly: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is crucial to trap steam and ensure that the rice cooks properly and becomes tender. Crimp the foil tightly around the edges of the dish to create a sealed environment.
   • Bake: Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the type of rice used.
4. Rest and Fluff:
   • Check for Doneness: After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and check if the rice is cooked through. The rice should be tender and all the liquid should be absorbed. If there is still liquid remaining, bake for another 5-10 minutes uncovered, checking periodically.
   • Rest: Once the rice is cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest, still covered with foil, for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the steam to redistribute and the rice to become even more tender and fluffy.
   • Fluff: After resting, remove the foil and fluff the rice gently with a fork. This separates the grains and incorporates the melted feta and roasted tomatoes throughout the rice.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish (Optional but Recommended): Garnish the baked rice with fresh herbs like chopped basil, parsley, or oregano. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty finish. A final drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the flavor and presentation.
   • Serve: Serve the Baked Tomato & Feta Rice hot, as a main course or a flavorful side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, lamb, or roasted vegetables.

Following these detailed instructions will guide you to create a perfectly baked, flavorful, and satisfying Baked Tomato & Feta Rice every time. The simple steps belie the depth of flavor and comforting nature of this dish.

Nutrition Facts: A Wholesome and Delicious Meal

Baked Tomato & Feta Rice is not only a flavorful and satisfying dish but also a relatively wholesome meal option. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional content, keeping in mind that exact values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Servings: 6

Approximate Calories Per Serving: 350-400 calories (This is an estimate and can vary)

Per Serving (Approximate Values):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 10-12g
• Fat: 18-22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8-10g (Primarily from feta and olive oil)
  • Monounsaturated Fat: (Healthy fats from olive oil)
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: (Healthy fats from olive oil)
• Cholesterol: 40-50mg
• Sodium: 500-600mg (Can vary significantly based on feta and broth)
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
  • Fiber: 3-4g
  • Sugar: 5-7g (Naturally occurring sugars from tomatoes)
• Vitamins and Minerals (Approximate and can vary):
  • Vitamin C: Good source (from tomatoes)
  • Vitamin K: Good source (from olive oil and herbs)
  • Potassium: Moderate source (from tomatoes)
  • Calcium: Moderate source (from feta)
  • Iron: Moderate source (from rice)

Important Notes:

• Serving Size: These nutritional values are based on an estimated serving size of approximately 1.5 cups of cooked rice dish. Adjust portion sizes to meet your individual dietary needs and calorie goals.
• Ingredient Variations: Using different types of feta (e.g., reduced-fat feta) or rice (e.g., brown rice) will alter the nutritional profile. Brown rice will increase fiber content, while reduced-fat feta will lower fat and calorie content.
• Sodium Content: The sodium content can be significantly influenced by the type of feta cheese and vegetable broth used. Opting for low-sodium vegetable broth and being mindful of the amount of feta used can help control sodium levels.
• Healthy Fats: The fats in this dish are primarily from olive oil and feta cheese. Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Feta cheese contains saturated fat, so moderation is key as part of a balanced diet.
• Fiber Content: Using brown rice instead of white rice will significantly increase the fiber content, contributing to better digestive health and satiety.
• Overall Assessment: Baked Tomato & Feta Rice can be a part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation. It provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals. It’s a vegetarian-friendly option that can be further enhanced with the addition of lean protein if desired.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutritional calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use in your recipe. This information is intended as a general guide.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient

One of the many appeals of Baked Tomato & Feta Rice is its minimal preparation time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Total Preparation Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Breakdown:

• Chopping/Preparing Vegetables (Tomatoes, Garlic): 5-7 minutes
  • Washing and halving or quartering tomatoes
  • Peeling and mincing or slicing garlic
• Measuring Ingredients (Rice, Broth, Herbs): 3-5 minutes
  • Measuring rice, vegetable broth, olive oil, and dried herbs
  • Crumbling feta cheese
• Assembling in Baking Dish: 5-8 minutes
  • Layering rice, tomatoes, feta, garlic, and herbs in the baking dish
  • Drizzling olive oil and seasoning
  • Pouring in vegetable broth and covering with foil

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Total Time (Preparation + Cooking): Approximately 60-70 minutes

Hands-On Time: Only 15-20 minutes of active preparation! The rest of the time is hands-off baking in the oven, freeing you up to do other things while your delicious meal cooks itself.

Tips for Even Faster Prep:

• Use Pre-Minced Garlic: If you are really short on time, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar. While fresh garlic is always preferred for flavor, pre-minced garlic is a convenient shortcut.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes (When Appropriate): Using canned diced tomatoes eliminates the need to chop fresh tomatoes, saving a few minutes.
• Pre-Crumbled Feta (Convenience): While block feta is recommended for best flavor and texture, pre-crumbled feta can save a minute or two of prep time.
• Organize Ingredients in Advance: Having all your ingredients measured and prepped before you start assembling can streamline the process. This is known as “mise en place” in culinary terms and can make cooking much more efficient.

Baked Tomato & Feta Rice is a testament to the fact that delicious and flavorful meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming to prepare. Its quick prep time and hands-off baking make it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners and effortless entertaining.

How to Serve Baked Tomato & Feta Rice: Versatile Serving Suggestions

Baked Tomato & Feta Rice is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making it a fantastic dish for various occasions and meal types. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

As a Main Course (Vegetarian Delight):

• Simple and Satisfying: Serve it as is, as a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian main course. The combination of rice, tomatoes, and feta is substantial and fulfilling on its own.
• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a fresh Greek salad, cucumber and tomato salad, or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to add lightness and freshness.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, or asparagus for a heartier and more colorful vegetarian meal.
• Legumes: Add a side of chickpeas or lentils for extra protein and fiber, creating a more complete and protein-rich vegetarian meal.

As a Side Dish (Perfect Accompaniment):

• Grilled Meats: It’s an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, fish, lamb chops, or steak. The Mediterranean flavors complement grilled meats beautifully.
• Roasted Chicken or Fish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, baked salmon, or grilled sea bass for a balanced and flavorful meal.
• Mediterranean Feast: Incorporate it into a larger Mediterranean spread with dishes like hummus, pita bread, olives, tzatziki, and dolmades.
• BBQ Side: It’s a welcome and flavorful alternative to traditional BBQ sides like potato salad or coleslaw at your next barbecue.

Serving Occasions:

• Weeknight Dinners: Its ease of preparation and hands-off baking make it perfect for busy weeknight meals.
• Weekend Lunches: A delightful and flavorful option for a relaxed weekend lunch.
• Potlucks and Gatherings: It travels well and is a crowd-pleasing dish to bring to potlucks, picnics, or casual gatherings.
• Casual Entertaining: Impress your guests with this simple yet elegant dish for casual dinner parties.

Garnish and Finishing Touches:

• Fresh Herbs: Always garnish with fresh herbs like chopped basil, parsley, or oregano for a burst of freshness and visual appeal.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for those who want to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.
• Extra Feta: Offer extra crumbled feta cheese on the side for those who want to add more cheesy goodness.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A final drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving enhances the flavor and adds a luxurious touch.
• Pine Nuts or Toasted Almonds (Optional): For added texture and nutty flavor, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds over the dish before serving.

Baked Tomato & Feta Rice is a true culinary chameleon, adapting seamlessly to various serving styles and occasions. Its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture make it a welcome addition to any table.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Tomato & Feta Rice

To ensure your Baked Tomato & Feta Rice is consistently delicious and perfectly cooked every time, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Use a baking dish that is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, as the rice may steam instead of bake properly. A 9×13 inch dish is generally ideal. If you are doubling the recipe, consider using two separate baking dishes rather than trying to cram everything into one.
2. Ensure Tight Foil Seal: The foil covering the baking dish is crucial for trapping steam and ensuring the rice cooks evenly and becomes tender. Make sure the foil is tightly sealed around the edges of the dish. This creates a steamy environment inside, similar to cooking rice in a pot. If steam escapes, the rice may dry out or not cook through properly.
3. Adjust Liquid if Needed (Especially for Brown Rice): While the recipe provides a general liquid ratio, you may need to adjust slightly depending on your oven and the type of rice. If you are using brown rice, it will require more liquid (typically about 1 cup extra) and a longer cooking time. Check the rice for doneness after the initial baking time. If it’s still too firm or dry, add a little more broth or water (¼ cup at a time), re-cover with foil, and continue baking until tender.
4. Let it Rest Before Fluffing: Resist the urge to fluff the rice immediately after removing it from the oven. Allowing the baked rice to rest, covered with foil, for 5-10 minutes is a critical step. This resting period allows the steam to redistribute throughout the rice, making it even more tender and fluffy. It also helps the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning at the End: Feta cheese is inherently salty, and the saltiness can vary depending on the brand. Always taste the Baked Tomato & Feta Rice after baking and fluffing, and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add a little extra salt and pepper to enhance the flavors to your liking. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can also brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the feta.

By following these additional tips, you can fine-tune your technique and consistently create a perfectly cooked and exceptionally flavorful Baked Tomato & Feta Rice that will impress every time.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered about Baked Tomato & Feta Rice

Here are five frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot and further understand Baked Tomato & Feta Rice:

Q1: Can I make Baked Tomato & Feta Rice ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare Baked Tomato & Feta Rice in advance, making it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining. You can assemble the dish (up to step 3 of the instructions) and store it, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as the dish will be starting from cold. Alternatively, you can bake the dish completely and then reheat it.

Q2: How do I reheat leftover Baked Tomato & Feta Rice?

A: Leftover Baked Tomato & Feta Rice reheats beautifully. You can reheat it in the microwave in individual portions. For larger quantities, reheat in the oven. To reheat in the oven, place the rice in an oven-safe dish, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to prevent drying, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Q3: Can I use different types of cheese instead of feta?

A: While feta is the traditional and characteristic cheese for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses for variations. Good alternatives include:

• Halloumi: Halloumi, like feta, is a salty cheese that holds its shape well when baked. It will offer a different texture, being firmer than feta.
• Goat Cheese (Chevre): Creamy goat cheese will melt similarly to feta and provide a tangy flavor.
• Ricotta Salata: This is a firmer, saltier ricotta that can be crumbled and used as a substitute for feta, offering a slightly milder flavor.
• Pecorino Romano: For a sharper, saltier flavor, try grated Pecorino Romano. However, it will melt differently than feta and won’t provide the same creamy pockets.

Keep in mind that substituting cheese will alter the flavor profile of the dish.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to Baked Tomato & Feta Rice?

A: Absolutely! Baked Tomato & Feta Rice is a fantastic base for adding other vegetables. Consider adding:

• Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) add sweetness and color.
• Onions or Shallots: Diced onions or shallots add savory depth.
• Zucchini or Eggplant: Diced zucchini or eggplant roast beautifully alongside the tomatoes.
• Artichoke Hearts: Quartered or halved artichoke hearts (canned or marinated) provide a tangy and slightly briny flavor.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of baking for added greens.

Add any extra vegetables along with the tomatoes and garlic when assembling the dish. You may need to slightly increase the baking time depending on the vegetables added.

Q5: Is Baked Tomato & Feta Rice gluten-free and vegetarian?

A: Yes, Baked Tomato & Feta Rice as described in this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. Rice is gluten-free, and the recipe does not include any meat or meat-based products. To ensure it remains vegetarian, use vegetable broth (not chicken broth unless you are not strictly vegetarian). Always check the labels of your ingredients (especially vegetable broth and feta) to ensure they are certified gluten-free if necessary and meet your dietary requirements.

This FAQ section addresses common questions and provides helpful insights to make your Baked Tomato & Feta Rice cooking experience even smoother and more enjoyable.

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