Lebanese cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients that come together to create hearty and delicious dishes. One such classic Lebanese recipe that’s sure to impress your guests is Stuffed Zucchini With Chickpeas. This dish is a beautiful combination of tender zucchini filled with a flavorful mixture of chickpeas, rice, and aromatic spices, all simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. Whether you’re looking to add a new recipe to your collection or simply want to try something different for dinner, this Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini recipe is a must-try!
Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini With Chickpeas
Ingredients:
– 5 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup long-grain rice
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the zucchinis and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch border around the edges. Finely chop the zucchini flesh and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chickpeas, rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each hollowed-out zucchini with the chickpea and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
5. In a deep baking dish, place the stuffed zucchinis side by side.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the diced tomatoes with their juice and the reserved chopped zucchini flesh. Season with salt and pepper, then pour this mixture over the stuffed zucchinis in the baking dish.
7. Pour the vegetable broth around the zucchinis in the baking dish, ensuring the liquid reaches halfway up the zucchinis.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the rice is cooked through.
9. Once done, remove the foil and broil for an additional 5 minutes to lightly brown the tops.
10. Serve the Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
This Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini With Chickpeas recipe is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The combination of tender zucchinis, hearty chickpeas, fragrant spices, and tangy tomato sauce is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the heart of Lebanon with every bite. Enjoy this flavorful dish with a side of fluffy couscous or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
