Mahshi
Mahshi is a classic Middle Eastern dish consisting of vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, stuffed with a flavorful rice and meat mixture, then simmered in a savory tomato sauce. It’s a hearty and comforting meal enjoyed across many countries in the region.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis or bell peppers (or a mix of both)
- 200g ground lamb or beef
- 1 cup rice (short-grain preferred)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Cook:
- Prepare the vegetables: Cut the tops off the zucchinis or peppers and scoop out the insides with a spoon, creating a hollow space for the stuffing. Set aside.
- Make the stuffing: In a pan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in rice, spices (cinnamon, cumin, allspice), salt, and pepper. Add a little water and cook until the rice is halfway done (it’ll cook fully inside the vegetables). Let the mixture cool slightly before stuffing the vegetables.
- Stuff the vegetables: Fill each zucchini or pepper with the rice and meat mixture, pressing gently to pack the stuffing. Be careful not to overstuff since the rice will expand while cooking.
- Cook the mahshi: In a large pot, layer the stuffed vegetables and pour the diced tomatoes with a bit of water over them. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 40-45 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the rice is fully cooked.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Mahshi is perfect as a main dish, served with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad!
