Stuffed Zucchini with Yogurt and Tomatoes
Discover a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of zucchini with a savory stuffing, topped with a creamy yogurt and tomato sauce. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 6 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup rice, rinsed and drained
- 500g ground meat (beef or lamb)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium tomatoes, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 cups water or broth
- Fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the zucchinis. Cut the tops off and hollow them out carefully using a small spoon, making sure not to break the skin. Set aside.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Stir in the grated tomatoes, rice, salt, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well and cook for about 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Stuff the hollowed zucchinis with the meat and rice mixture, pressing lightly to fill them completely.
- In a large pot, arrange the stuffed zucchinis upright. Pour the water or broth over them and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the rice is fully cooked.
- In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt with a bit of salt, then pour it over the stuffed zucchinis before serving. Garnish with fresh mint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 1. Can I use other types of meat?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
- 2. How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover stuffed zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- 3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook; you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
- 4. Is there a vegetarian alternative?
- Absolutely! You can use a combination of lentils and vegetables as a stuffing for a vegetarian version.
- 5. Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
- You can prepare the stuffed zucchinis in advance and store them in the fridge before cooking. Cook them the next day.
- 6. What can I serve with stuffed zucchini?
- A side salad or bread is a great accompaniment to this dish.
- 7. Can I freeze stuffed zucchini?
- Yes, you can freeze the stuffed zucchinis before cooking. Just thaw and cook when you’re ready to eat.
- 8. What type of yogurt is best to use?
- Greek yogurt is highly recommended for a thicker, creamier texture, but any plain yogurt will work.
