Stuffed zucchini

Stuffed Zucchini with Meat and Tomato Sauce

Stuffed zucchini is a classic dish, appreciated for its rich flavors and versatility in preparation. This delicious recipe is sure to delight you, featuring a perfect combination of vegetables, meat, and fresh tomato sauce. In this recipe, you will learn how to make stuffed zucchini with meat, perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. I invite you to join me on this culinary adventure!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 40 minutes
- Number of servings: 6

Ingredients
- Zucchini: 6 medium pieces
- Meat: 600 g (pork shoulder + chicken thigh)
- Onions: 3 medium onions
- Carrot: 1 small carrot
- Rice: 4 tablespoons
- Tomatoes: 10 medium tomatoes (3 for the lid)
- Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon
- Oil: 100 ml
- Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Dill: a few sprigs
- Parsley: a few sprigs
- Salt and pepper: to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the tomato sauce
Start by finely chopping two of the three onions. In a pan, add a cup of water and about 70 ml of oil. Place the pan over medium heat. When the onion becomes translucent and changes color, add the 7 grated tomatoes through the large holes of the grater. Stir occasionally and let the sauce simmer until it thickens to a broth-like consistency. This sauce will be the delicious base for the stuffed zucchini.

2. Preparing the zucchini
Wash the zucchini well, then cut them in half lengthwise. Each half will become a filled "boat." Use a spoon or knife to scoop out the flesh, leaving a thickness of about 4 mm to maintain the shape. Make sure to remove the remaining seeds under running water and let them drain.

3. Preparing the filling
Peel the carrot and the remaining onions. The rice should be selected and rinsed under cold water to remove impurities. The meat, well washed, should be finely chopped. In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the remaining onion (finely chopped), grated carrot, drained rice, chopped dill, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and 3 tablespoons of oil. Mix the composition well to homogenize it.

4. Filling the zucchini
Fill the zucchini halves with the meat and rice mixture, leaving a gap of about 5 mm for the tomato lid. This detail is important to allow steam to circulate during cooking.

5. Cooking the zucchini
Place the stuffed zucchini in a deep pot. Add water up to the level of the filling, season with salt to taste, then place them on the heat. When the water begins to boil, transfer the pot to the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let them cook for about 1 hour.

6. Finalizing the dish
After 1 hour, add the previously prepared tomato sauce over the zucchini and let it simmer together for another 10 minutes. At this point, you can dissolve the flour in a little water and add the mixture to the sauce to give it a creamier consistency.

7. Serving
When the zucchini are ready, take them out of the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve warm, with a spoonful of sour cream on each serving, adding a creamy and delicious touch.

Practical Tips
- Choosing zucchini: Choose medium-sized, firm zucchini without spots. Larger zucchini may have a more fibrous flesh and large seeds.
- Meat: You can use any type of meat you prefer, including beef or turkey, to customize the recipe.
- Variations: You can add feta cheese or mozzarella to the filling for extra flavor. You can also add other vegetables, such as peppers or mushrooms, to diversify the filling.
- Serving: These zucchini are delicious alongside a fresh salad or mashed potatoes. A bottle of white wine or a fruit cocktail can perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional Benefits
Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. By combining them with meat and rice, you get a balanced meal rich in protein, carbohydrates, and fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen zucchini?: It is preferable to use fresh zucchini, but if you have frozen zucchini, make sure they are well drained of water before filling them.
- Can they be prepared in advance?: Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed zucchini a day in advance and keep them in the refrigerator. The next day, just pop them in the oven to heat them up.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the tomato sauce?: You can add a few fresh basil leaves or oregano to intensify the flavors of the sauce.

In conclusion, the recipe for stuffed zucchini with meat and tomato sauce is not only delicious but also an excellent way to bring vegetables to the forefront of your meals. I encourage you to try it and experiment with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy your meal!