Stuffed Zucchini (kousa) Recipe

Preparation and Cooking

1. 1

   Prepare the Zucchini

   Cut the tops off the zucchinis and scoop out the insides using a small spoon or a melon baller, leaving about 1/4 inch of the flesh. Set the scooped flesh aside.

2. 2

   Make the Filling

   In a skillet, heat some oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in the tomato paste, scooped zucchini flesh, rice, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well and let it cool slightly.

3. 3

   Stuff the Zucchini

   Fill each zucchini with the meat and rice mixture, packing it gently.

4. 4

   Cook the Zucchini

   Place the stuffed zucchinis in a pot. Add enough water to cover the bottom of the pot (about 1 inch). Cover and cook on medium heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.

5. 5

   Serve

   Carefully remove the stuffed zucchinis from the pot and serve warm. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil or a squeeze of lemon.