Syrian Stuffed Zucchini in Yogurt Sauce with Meat
Tender zucchini hollowed out and stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices, then simmered in a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce. This is a beloved classic in Syrian cuisine, often served for special occasions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 12-15 medium Medium zucchini(about 2-3 inches long)
- 1 lb Ground lamb or beef
- 1 cup Short-grain rice(rinsed)
- 1/2 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1.5 tsp Salt(divided)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(divided)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or olive oil
- 4 cups Plain yogurt(full-fat)
- 3 tbsp Cornstarch or flour
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 cups Water or lamb broth
- 2 tbsp Mint(dried, optional for yogurt sauce)
- 1/4 cup Pine nuts(toasted, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the zucchini: Wash and trim the ends. Using a zucchini corer or a small spoon, carefully hollow out the zucchini, leaving about a 1/4-inch thick shell. Reserve the scooped-out zucchini flesh for another use or discard.
- 2
Prepare the stuffing: In a bowl, combine the ground meat, rinsed rice, chopped onion, allspice, cinnamon, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- 3
Stuff the zucchini: Loosely fill each zucchini shell with the meat and rice mixture. Do not pack too tightly, as the rice will expand during cooking. Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
- 4
Sear the stuffed zucchini: Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Carefully place the stuffed zucchini in the skillet and sear them on all sides until lightly browned. This helps them hold their shape and adds flavor.
- 5
Prepare the yogurt sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of water or broth.
- 6
Cook the yogurt sauce: Pour the yogurt mixture into a clean pot. Add the minced garlic, remaining 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, and optional dried mint. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil vigorously.
- 7
Simmer the stuffed zucchini: Carefully arrange the seared stuffed zucchini in the pot with the yogurt sauce. Add enough water or broth to almost cover the zucchini. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the zucchini are tender and the rice is fully cooked.
- 8
Toast pine nuts: While the zucchini are simmering, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Watch them closely as they burn easily.
- 9
Serve: Ladle the stuffed zucchini and plenty of yogurt sauce into bowls. Garnish with toasted pine nuts. Serve hot, typically with a side of vermicelli rice pilaf.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a zucchini corer for easier and more uniform hollowing.
- ✓Don't overstuff the zucchini, as the rice will expand.
- ✓Stirring the yogurt sauce constantly is key to achieving a smooth, creamy consistency without curdling.
- ✓If the yogurt sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a little more water or broth.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the stuffing for a richer flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use a filling of rice, herbs, and vegetables.
- Some recipes include small meatballs simmered alongside the stuffed zucchini in the yogurt sauce.