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.

Stuffed Zucchini (Dovlecei Umpluți)

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

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 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.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, rice, chopped zucchini flesh, onion, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff the zucchini halves with the meat and rice mixture.
  5. 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.
  6. Pour the tomato sauce over the stuffed zucchinis and bring to a simmer.
  7. 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.
  8. 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