Riz Bil Kousa w Lahme

Riz Bil Kousa w Lahme is a traditional Lebanese dish featuring fragrant rice stuffed with zucchini and seasoned ground meat. This dairy-free recipe captures the essence of Middle Eastern flavors and is perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

• Long-grain rice - 1 cup
• Zucchini - 2 medium, hollowed out
• Ground beef or lamb - 200 grams
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Tomato paste - 2 tablespoons
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Water - 2 cups
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

1. Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and ground meat to the skillet, cooking until the meat is browned.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper, then cook for an additional 5 minutes until well combined.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and let the meat mixture cool slightly before stuffing it into the hollowed zucchini.
6. In a large pot, add the soaked rice and water, bringing it to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
8. To serve, place the stuffed zucchini on a plate, spoon the rice around it, and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbs: 56 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from the meat, supporting muscle health.
• Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.

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