Cameroonian Stuffed Zucchini

Ingredients

In this Cameroonian adaptation, we incorporate Cameroonian spices and flavors to give the dish a unique twist. The original Turkish recipe is typically vegetarian, but we add ground meat to make it heartier and more suitable for Cameroonian cuisine. Additionally, we use local Cameroonian spices and ingredients to infuse the dish with the flavors of the region. We alse have the original recipe for Kabak dolması, so you can check it out.

• 4 medium zucchinis 4 medium zucchinis
• 250g ground beef or lamb 250g ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, diced 1 tomato, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create boats.
3. 3.
   In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, tomato, tomato paste, paprika, cayenne pepper, ground ginger, ground coriander, salt, and pepper.
4. 4.
   Stuff the zucchini boats with the meat mixture.
5. 5.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the stuffed zucchinis in the skillet and cook for 5 minutes on each side, until lightly browned.
6. 6.
   Transfer the zucchinis to a baking dish and pour the tomato sauce over them.
7. 7.
   Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. 8.
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the zucchinis are tender and the sauce has thickened.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Zucchini — Choose medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and free from blemishes. Scoop out the seeds carefully to create the perfect zucchini boats.
• Ground meat — Opt for lean ground beef or lamb for a healthier option. Make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before stuffing the zucchinis.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
• Serve the Cameroonian Stuffed Zucchini with a side of cooked rice or couscous for a complete meal.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop even more.

Serving advice

Serve the Cameroonian Stuffed Zucchini hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs well with a side of cooked rice or couscous.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed zucchinis on a platter, drizzle some of the tomato sauce over them, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for an attractive presentation.