Stuffed zucchini

Stuffed zucchini with minced meat - a seasonal recipe, full of flavor and tradition, perfect for bringing a touch of warmth to colder days. This dish not only offers a delicious taste but is also an excellent way to incorporate vegetables into our diet. Stuffed zucchinis are often considered a symbol of comfort and family meals, and today, I will guide you step by step to prepare them at home.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 1500 grams minced meat (pork, beef, or a combination)
- 3 medium onions
- 1 cup of rice (about 200 grams)
- 2-3 fresh tomatoes (to use as "lids")
- 4-5 smaller zucchinis
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons oil (olive or sunflower)

Recipe preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients. Choose fresh zucchinis with smooth skin and uniform size for even baking. The minced meat can be beef, pork, or a combination of both, depending on your preference. The rice will help absorb the juices from the meat and vegetables, bringing a pleasant texture to the dish.

2. Washing the rice: Place the rice in a bowl and wash it under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, helping to achieve a final dish with a less sticky texture. After washing, drain the rice well.

3. Preparing the onions: Peel and finely chop the onions. Heat the oil in a pan and add the onions. Sauté them over medium heat until they become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors of the onions, providing a deeper taste to the dish.

4. The meat mixture: In a large bowl, add the minced meat, washed and drained rice, sautéed onions, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients well with your hands or a spatula until combined. Don’t be afraid to use all your strength – it’s important that all ingredients are well integrated.

5. Preparing the zucchinis: Wash the zucchinis and cut off the ends. You can peel them if you wish, but I recommend leaving the skin for added color and nutrients. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh with a spoon, leaving a thin wall. The flesh can be saved and used in other dishes, such as soups or purees.

6. Filling the zucchinis: Fill each half of the zucchini with the meat mixture, ensuring that you fill them well but not excessively, as the rice will expand during baking.

7. Preparing the sauce: In a taller pot, arrange the stuffed zucchinis side by side. Slice the tomatoes thinly and place them on top of the zucchinis. Mix the tomato paste with the tomato juice and a little water, then pour the sauce evenly over the zucchinis.

8. Baking: Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 160°C. Let the zucchinis bake for about 45 minutes or until the meat is fully cooked and the zucchinis become tender.

9. Serving: After taking them out of the oven, let the zucchinis cool slightly. Serve them with a spoonful of sour cream on top for a delicious contrast of textures and flavors. You can also add freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips and tricks:
- If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can include herbs and spices in the meat mixture, such as thyme or oregano.
- A delicious variation is to add cottage cheese or feta to the meat mixture for a richer taste.
- If you have leftover zucchini flesh, you can use it to make a delicious soup or puree.

Nutritional benefits: Zucchinis are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium. They are also low in calories, making them an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Minced meat provides essential proteins, while rice adds a supply of complex carbohydrates that will give you long-lasting energy.

Delicious combinations: This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of mashed potatoes. You can also pair stuffed zucchinis with a dry white wine that will complement the flavors of the meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use minced chicken, but make sure to season it well, as it has a milder flavor.
2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian? You can replace the meat with chopped vegetables, mushrooms, or lentils, adding additional spices for flavor.
3. How long can I keep stuffed zucchinis in the fridge? They keep well in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume them fresh to enjoy all the flavors.

Stuffed zucchini with minced meat is a versatile dish that is easy to adapt to your tastes. I hope this recipe inspires you to prepare it at home and enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones. Bon appétit!