Arbëreshë Stuffed Zucchini with Rice and Meat (Speca të Mbushur)

Speca të Mbushur is a traditional dish from Arbëreshë cuisine, featuring zucchini stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice and meat. This dish is a delicious representation of the rich culinary heritage of the Arbëreshë people.

Arbëreshë Stuffed Zucchini with Rice and Meat (Speca të Mbushur)

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/2 lb ground meat (beef or lamb)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create a hollow center.
  3. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
  4. Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked rice and chopped parsley.
  6. Stuff the hollowed-out zucchinis with the meat and rice mixture.
  7. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish, drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
  8. Serve the Speca të Mbushur hot and enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
45 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
18g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
16g

Supplies

Baking dish Skillet

Tools

Knife Cutting board Oven

Serving suggestions

Serve the Speca të Mbushur with a side of fresh salad and crusty bread.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, the meat can be substituted with additional vegetables or legumes.

Cost

$15