Kousa Mahshi (lamb And Rice Stuffed Zucchini)

Kousa Mahshi is a traditional Levantine dish of stuffed zucchini with a flavorful filling of lamb and rice. This dish is a popular choice for family gatherings and special occasions.

Kousa Mahshi (lamb And Rice Stuffed Zucchini)

Ingredients

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

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 pulp for later use.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the ground lamb, rice, onion, tomatoes, tomato paste, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff the hollowed zucchinis with the lamb and rice mixture, and place them in a deep pot.
  5. Chop the reserved zucchini pulp and scatter it around the stuffed zucchinis in the pot.
  6. Sprinkle the chopped parsley and mint over the zucchinis, then drizzle with olive oil.
  7. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pot, cover, and cook over medium heat for 45-50 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is cooked through.
  8. Serve the Kousa Mahshi hot, with a side of yogurt and pita bread.

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
Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Deep pot Spoon Knife Cutting board

Tools

Oven Stove

Serving suggestions

Serve the Kousa Mahshi with a side of yogurt, pita bread, and a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground lamb with a mixture of cooked lentils, rice, and spices.

Cost

$15