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.
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
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create a hollow center.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked rice and chopped parsley.
- Stuff the hollowed-out zucchinis with the meat and rice mixture.
- 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.
- 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