Calabaza Rellena Nica (nicaraguan-style Stuffed Squash)
Calabaza Rellena Nica, or Nicaraguan-style Stuffed Squash, is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. This traditional Nicaraguan recipe features a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, all stuffed inside a tender squash and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 large calabaza squash
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the top off the calabaza squash and scoop out the seeds to create a hollow cavity.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the cooked rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Fill the hollowed-out squash with the beef and rice mixture. Pour the tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 20 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 1 hour
- Total time:
- 1 hour
- Cooking method
- Oven
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 350 per serving
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 15g
Supplies
Baking sheet Skillet
Tools
Knife Cutting board Oven
Serving suggestions
Serve the Calabaza Rellena Nica with a side of fresh salad and a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips & tricks
Make sure to choose a calabaza squash that is large enough to hold the filling and has a tender, flavorful flesh.
Cost
$15