Introduction
Stuffed Zucchini with Rice is one of the most popular home-style dishes in Middle Eastern cuisine, especially in Palestine, the Levant, and Egypt.
This dish is distinguished by its authentic Eastern flavor that combines tender zucchini, seasoned rice stuffing, and rich tomato sauce that gives it an irresistible taste. Stuffed zucchini is not just a meal, but a part of family cooking heritage, where families traditionally gathered to prepare the stuffing and hollow the zucchini in an atmosphere filled with warmth and togetherness.
First: What Makes Stuffed Zucchini with Rice a Special Eastern Dish?
1) An Authentic Home-Style Recipe
Despite its simple ingredients, the secret to its success lies in the balanced flavors between the stuffing, zucchini, and sauce.
2) Flavorful Rice Stuffing
The seasoned rice filling gives the dish a rich aroma and a well-balanced taste.
3) Versatile Serving Options
It can be served with yogurt, salad, or alongside fluffy rice.
4) One of the Most Beloved Dishes at Family Gatherings
Because it combines great flavor with the elegant presentation of stuffed zucchini.
Second: Ingredients for Stuffed Zucchini with Rice
Zucchini Ingredients:
- 20 small zucchini
- 1 tablespoon salt for soaking
- Water
Stuffing Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups Egyptian rice or short-grain rice
- 1 finely chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped parsley
- ½ cup chopped fresh mint or dried mint
- 2 chopped tomatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Cumin
- A pinch of cinnamon
- A pinch of mixed spices
Sauce Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt
- 1 tablespoon dried mint
Third: Step-by-Step Preparation of Stuffed Zucchini with Rice
1) Hollowing the Zucchini
- Wash the zucchini thoroughly.
- Trim the ends and hollow out the centers using a corer.
- Soak in salted water for 10 minutes to enhance tenderness.
2) Preparing the Rice Stuffing
- Wash the rice and drain well.
- Mix all stuffing ingredients together:
Rice + onion + tomatoes + parsley + mint + oil + spices. - Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3) Stuffing the Zucchini
- Fill the zucchini with the stuffing without pressing firmly to prevent the rice from spilling during cooking.
- Leave a small space at the top to allow the rice to expand.
4) Preparing the Cooking Pot
- Arrange the stuffed zucchini neatly in the pot, either vertically or horizontally.
- Tomato or potato slices may be added to the bottom to prevent sticking.
5) Adding the Cooking Sauce
- Mix the water with tomato paste, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and mint.
- Pour the mixture over the zucchini until they are almost fully submerged.
6) Final Cooking
- Cover the pot and cook over high heat until boiling.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 40–60 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the stuffing absorbs the sauce.
7) Serving
- Serve the stuffed zucchini with the tomato sauce from the pot.
- Yogurt or Arabic salad may be served on the side.
Fourth: Secrets to Perfect Stuffed Zucchini with Rice
✔ Choose small zucchini
They are more tender and easier to stuff.
✔ Do not overpack the stuffing
To prevent the rice from bursting during cooking.
✔ Properly cover the zucchini with sauce
For a rich and balanced flavor.
✔ Add garlic and mint to the sauce
To enhance the authentic Eastern taste.
✔ Let the dish rest after cooking
This improves texture and flavor.
Fifth: Nutritional Value of Stuffed Zucchini
1) Low in Calories
Suitable for dieting when prepared with minimal oil and light sauce.
2) Rich in Fiber
From zucchini and parsley.
3) Contains Essential Vitamins
Such as vitamins C and A, and potassium.
4) Plant-Based Protein from Rice
Suitable for light meals and fasting.
5) A Filling and Healthy Dish
Provides high nutritional value without excessive fat.
Conclusion
Stuffed Zucchini with Rice is one of the most delicious and popular Middle Eastern dishes, known for its authentic heritage flavor that blends fresh vegetables with seasoned rice.
Whether prepared for a family lunch or a special occasion, this dish adds an unforgettable Eastern touch to your table.
By following the precise steps and cooking tips above, you can prepare perfect stuffed zucchini that tastes just like it came from a grandmother’s kitchen.
