Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a delightful addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Today, we are going to dive into the world of Lebanese cuisine with a delicious and comforting recipe for Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini With Tomatoes. This dish is a perfect blend of savory zucchinis, fragrant spices, and juicy tomatoes, creating a satisfying meal that will transport you to the heart of Lebanon with each bite.
Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini With Tomatoes
Ingredients:
– 6 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup of rice
– 1 pound of ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon of allspice
– 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cups of water
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the zucchinis. Cut off the tops of the zucchinis and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of the zucchini to create a shell. Save the scooped-out flesh for later use.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rice, ground beef, chopped onion, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until thoroughly combined.
3. Stuff each hollowed-out zucchini with the meat and rice mixture, packing it tightly into the zucchini shells.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Place the stuffed zucchinis in the pan, arranging them in a single layer.
5. Add the reserved zucchini flesh to the pan around the stuffed zucchinis. This will enhance the flavor of the dish as it cooks.
6. Pour the water into the pan, ensuring that the zucchinis are partially submerged. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer over low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is cooked through.
7. Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish the Lebanese Stuffed Zucchinis With Tomatoes with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your Lebanese Stuffed Zucchinis With Tomatoes warm, with a side of creamy yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or for impressing guests with its exotic flavors and comforting appeal. Transport yourself to the bustling streets of Beirut with this authentic Lebanese recipe that is sure to become a household favorite.
