Are you looking for a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying vegetarian meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delicious recipe for Stuffed Zucchini in a vibrant tomato sauce! This recipe takes the humble zucchini and transforms it into a culinary masterpiece, bursting with the tastes of Mexico. Imagine tender zucchini boats brimming with a savory mixture of rice, beans, corn, and spices, all simmered in a rich and aromatic tomato sauce. It's a complete meal in one, packed with vegetables and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend gathering.
This recipe is incredibly versatile; feel free to adjust the spices and add-ins to your liking. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or a milder flavor profile, this Stuffed Zucchini recipe can be customized to suit your taste buds. Ready to dive into the simple steps that will bring this Mexican-inspired dish to your table? Let's get started with the detailed, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Blender
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Ground beef (20% fat): 900g
- Bell pepper: 1/2
- Onion: 1/4
- Green beans: A handful
- Zucchini: 5
- Parsley sprigs: Some
- Roma tomatoes: 4 (large)
- Garlic cloves: 5
- Paprika (red): 1 tablespoon
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Chili seeds: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground coriander: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground cumin: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Oregano: 1/4 teaspoon
- Cheese (mozzarella or your preference): 1 cup
- Salt: To taste
- Water: 1 cup + 3 cups
- Olive oil (or oil of your preference)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling and Sauce
- Chop the onion and bell pepper.
- Clean and chop the green beans.
- Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the ground beef for 8 minutes.
- Add garlic, onion, paprika, chili powder, chili seeds, cumin, coriander, and black pepper to the beef.
- Add parsley, green beans, and bell pepper to the mixture. Season with salt.
- Add 1 cup of water, cover, and cook over medium heat for 20 minutes.
- Cut the zucchini in half, remove some of the filling (don't throw it away!), and add it to the meat mixture.
- Cook the zucchini filling with the meat for 5 minutes.
- Blend the tomatoes, garlic, and oregano with a little water to create a tomato sauce.
- Heat some oil in a pan, add the onion, and then add the tomato sauce. Season with salt.
- Let the sauce boil for 12 minutes, then add 3 cups of water.
Step 2. Assemble and Simmer the Stuffed Zucchini
- Boil the tomatoes in hot water until they cool.
- Place the stuffed zucchini in the sauce, cover, and cook for a little while.
Step 3. Finishing Touches
- Add cheese to the zucchini and continue cooking for 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.
Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style
Tips
- Use your favorite type of cheese.
- Adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different vegetables in the stuffing?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to customize the stuffing to your liking.
2. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the stuffing mixture for extra heat. Jalapeños would also add a nice kick!
This Stuffed Zucchini in Tomato Sauce recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an incredibly flavorful and satisfying meal. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of Mexico with this healthy and easy-to-make dish, perfect for any occasion. Now get cooking and savor every delicious bite!