Stuffed Zucchini Boats (Kabak Dolması)

Kabak Dolması, also known as Stuffed Zucchini Boats, is a traditional dish in Gagauz cuisine. It consists of zucchinis stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices, then cooked to perfection.

Stuffed Zucchini Boats (Kabak Dolması)

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1 cup ground meat (beef or lamb)
  • 1 cup rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4-inch thick shells. Chop the scooped zucchini flesh and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, rice, chopped onion, diced tomatoes, parsley, olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff the zucchini boats with the meat and rice mixture.
  5. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a deep skillet or baking dish. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet.
  6. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and cook over medium heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is cooked through.
  7. Serve the Kabak Dolması hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Skillet Baking dish Knife Cutting board Large bowl

Tools

Lid or foil for covering

Serving suggestions

Serve the Kabak Dolması with a side of yogurt and a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

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

Cost

$15