Dolma Kusa (iraqi Stuffed Zucchini With Rice And Lamb)

Dolma Kusa is a traditional Iraqi dish that features zucchini stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice and lamb. This dish is a staple in Mizrahi Jewish cuisine and is perfect for a hearty and comforting meal.

Dolma Kusa (iraqi Stuffed Zucchini With Rice And Lamb)

Ingredients

  • 4 large zucchinis
  • 1/2 lb ground lamb
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut off the tops of the zucchinis and hollow them out using a spoon, leaving about 1/4 inch of flesh. Reserve the zucchini flesh for later use.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the ground lamb, rice, onion, tomatoes, tomato paste, parsley, mint, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff the hollowed zucchinis with the lamb and rice mixture.
  5. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a deep pot and arrange them snugly to prevent them from toppling over.
  6. Chop the reserved zucchini flesh and scatter it around the stuffed zucchinis in the pot.
  7. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the zucchinis until they are almost covered.
  8. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for an additional 45 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the rice is cooked.
  9. Serve the dolma kusa hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
18g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Deep pot with lid

Tools

Spoon Knife Bowl

Serving suggestions

Serve the dolma kusa with a side of yogurt and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground lamb with cooked lentils or chickpeas.

Cost

$15