Kousa Mahshi, or stuffed zucchini, is a culinary treasure from Northern Lebanon, a dish brimming with vibrant flavors and textures. This comforting and satisfying meal features tender zucchini boats delicately filled with a fragrant rice and herb mixture, then simmered in a rich, tangy yogurt sauce. The combination of the zucchini's subtle sweetness, the savory rice filling, and the creamy yogurt creates a symphony of tastes that will transport you to the sun-drenched hills of Lebanon. It's a dish perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight family dinner, equally appreciated for its deliciousness and relative ease of preparation.
The precise blend of spices and herbs used in the filling varies by family recipe, but the core ingredients remain constant, resulting in a dish that's both comforting and exciting. From the careful preparation of the zucchini to the simmering perfection of the sauce, each step plays a vital role in achieving the perfect Kousa Mahshi. Ready to embark on this flavorful culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this beloved Lebanese classic.
Tools Needed
- Fry pan
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Spoon
- Zucchini corer (optional)
Ingredients
- Medium-sized zucchinis: 12
- Basmati rice: 3/4 cup
- Minced meat (lamb or beef): 125g
- Natural yogurt: 1.5 kg
- Cumin: 1/2 tbsp
- Cinnamon: 1/2 tbsp
- Garam masala: 1/2 tbsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tbsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tbsp
- White pepper: 1/4 tbsp
- Salt: 1 tbsp + 1 tbsp (for sauce)
- Mint (fresh): 10g
- Garlic: 40g (about 8 cloves)
- Butter: 20g
- Olive oil: 3 tbsp
- Water: 3 cups
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a fry pan over high heat. Add minced meat and brown, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Add rinsed basmati rice and mix for one minute. Turn off heat.
- Add spices (salt, cumin, cinnamon, black pepper, white pepper, garam masala, cayenne pepper) and butter to the meat and rice mixture. Mix thoroughly while still warm.
- Set the mixture aside to cool.
Step 2. Stuff and Cook the Zucchini
- Slice the tops and bottoms off the zucchinis. Use a zucchini corer or knife to scoop out about 60% of the insides, leaving a shell.
- Wash the zucchinis and let them drain.
- Stuff the zucchinis about 75% full with the meat and rice mixture.
- Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the stuffed zucchinis and cover. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add crushed garlic and salt to the saucepan. Continue to cook until zucchinis are tender.
Step 3. Make the Yogurt Sauce
- Turn off the heat. Stir in fresh mint and natural yogurt gently.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve warm.
Read more: Red Lentil Soup with Lemon Mint Yogurt: A Food Wishes Recipe
Tips
- Use light-colored zucchinis for best results.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference.
- Don't overfill the zucchinis, or they may burst during cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes! Other small summer squash like yellow squash or pattypan squash work well. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
2. What if I don't have yogurt? Can I use something else?
While yogurt adds a unique tang, you can substitute with a light sour cream or even a little lemon juice and broth for a different flavor profile.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Kousa Mahshi! This Northern Lebanese recipe is a testament to the simple beauty of fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. Savor each bite and share this flavorful dish with loved ones for a truly memorable culinary experience.