Here’s a flavorful Kousa Mahshi Stuffed Zucchini Recipe that brings the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your kitchen. This traditional dish is made by hollowing out zucchini and stuffing them with a savory mixture of spiced ground meat, rice, and herbs. The stuffed zucchinis are then simmered in a rich tomato broth, making for a comforting and satisfying meal. The Kousa Mahshi Stuffed Zucchini Recipe is a favorite in many Middle Eastern households and offers a delicate balance of flavors, with the tender zucchini perfectly complementing the hearty filling.
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Medium zucchini (kousa) | 8-10 pieces |
| Ground beef or lamb | 250g |
| Short-grain rice (rinsed) | 1 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | ¼ cup |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground allspice | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Tomato sauce | 2 cups |
| Water or broth | 2 cups |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
Method of Preparation:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Wash the zucchini and cut off the stem end. Use a corer to hollow out the center of each zucchini, leaving about ¼ inch of flesh around the edges. Be careful not to pierce the skin. Set the hollowed zucchinis aside.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, rinsed rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until evenly combined.
- Stuff the Zucchini:
- Gently stuff each hollowed zucchini with the meat and rice mixture. Be sure not to overfill them, as the rice will expand while cooking. Leave about ½ inch of space at the top of each zucchini.
- Prepare the Cooking Liquid:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce, water or broth, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Kousa Mahshi:
- Carefully place the stuffed zucchinis into the pot with the tomato broth, arranging them in a single layer if possible. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is fully cooked. Turn the zucchinis occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once done, carefully remove the stuffed zucchinis from the pot and transfer them to a serving dish. Spoon some of the tomato broth over the top for added flavor.
Presentation & Decoration:
- Serving: Serve Kousa Mahshi Stuffed Zucchini hot, with some of the tomato sauce drizzled over each zucchini. This dish pairs well with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad, like cucumber and mint, to balance the rich flavors of the stuffing.
- Decoration: Garnish the dish with chopped parsley or fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. You can also add a sprinkle of sumac or a few lemon wedges on the side to enhance the presentation and offer an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion:
This Kousa Mahshi Stuffed Zucchini Recipe is a delightful and aromatic dish that beautifully showcases the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. The tender zucchini, filled with a savory blend of spiced meat and rice, is simmered in a tangy tomato broth, making it both comforting and satisfying. It’s a perfect meal for family gatherings or special occasions, bringing a taste of tradition and home-cooked comfort to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make Kousa Mahshi vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the meat with a mixture of cooked lentils, chickpeas, or even extra rice mixed with sautéed vegetables like onions, carrots, and peppers.
How do I prevent the zucchinis from breaking while cooking?
Be gentle when hollowing out the zucchinis, leaving enough flesh to keep them sturdy. Also, avoid overfilling the zucchini with stuffing, as the rice will expand during cooking.
Can I freeze Kousa Mahshi?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked stuffed zucchinis. Place them in an airtight container with some of the cooking liquid and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I use long-grain rice instead of short-grain?
Short-grain rice works best for this recipe as it becomes tender and slightly sticky, helping to bind the filling. However, you can use long-grain rice, but be mindful that the texture will be a bit different.
What sides go well with Kousa Mahshi?
Traditional sides include a simple yogurt sauce or garlic-infused yogurt, a cucumber-tomato salad, or even a small serving of flatbread to mop up the delicious sauce.