There’s something truly special about Turkish cuisine – the flavors, the aromas, the rich cultural history woven into every dish. Today, we’re diving into a classic recipe that embodies the essence of Turkish cooking: Stuffed Zucchini, or Kabak Dolmasi. This dish combines tender zucchinis filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground meat, and a medley of spices, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to create this delightful Turkish delicacy in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Title: Turkish Stuffed Zucchini Kabak Dolmasi
Ingredients:
– 6 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup of rice
– 1/2 lb ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Begin by preparing the zucchinis. Cut off the stems and slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to carefully hollow out the insides, creating a cavity for the filling. Set the hollowed zucchinis aside.
2. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, diced tomatoes, rinsed rice, olive oil, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Stuff each hollowed zucchini with the filling mixture, ensuring they are nicely filled but not overly packed.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a snug, deep baking dish, arranging them side by side.
7. Pour enough water into the baking dish to cover the bottom, allowing the zucchinis to steam as they cook.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
9. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is fully cooked.
10. Once done, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to brown the tops slightly.
11. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.
These Turkish Stuffed Zucchinis, or Kabak Dolmasi, are a delightful blend of flavors that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Istanbul with each bite. The tender zucchinis, aromatic rice, and savory meat filling create a harmonious dish that is sure to impress your loved ones and guests. Enjoy this warm and comforting meal alongside a dollop of creamy yogurt and a sprinkle of sumac for an authentic Turkish experience that celebrates the essence of home cooking in Turkey.
