Stuffed Zucchini (Dovlecei Umpluți)
Dovlecei Umpluți, or Stuffed Zucchini, is a traditional dish in Romani cuisine that features zucchini filled with a flavorful mixture of meat, rice, and spices. This dish is a delicious and hearty option for a family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey)
- 1/2 cup rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, rice, chopped zucchini flesh, onion, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the zucchini halves with the meat and rice mixture.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the stuffed zucchinis in the skillet, stuffed side up, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the stuffed zucchinis and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve the Dovlecei Umpluți hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 20 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 1 hour
- Total time:
- 1 hour
- Cooking method
- Stovetop
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 300 per serving
- Protein
- 15g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 12g
Supplies
Large skillet Baking dish Sharp knife Large bowl
Tools
Oven Stove
Serving suggestions
Serving suggestions: Dovlecei Umpluți pairs well with a side salad and crusty bread.
Tips & tricks
Tips: You can customize the filling by adding your favorite herbs and spices, or incorporating different types of meat for variety.
Cost
$10