Turkish Stuffed Squash: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal Bursting with Middle Eastern Aromatics

**Description:**Turkish Stuffed Squash (Dolma) is a delicious and satisfying dish that perfectly marries the flavors of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and savory filling. Hollowed-out squashes are generously filled with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs, then slowly cooked until tender. This traditional Turkish recipe is sure to become a favorite family meal, offering comforting textures and a rich infusion of Middle Eastern tastes.

**Ingredients:**For the Filling:- 4 medium zucchinis or small squash- 1 cup rice (preferably short-grain)- 250 grams ground beef or lamb- 1 onion, finely chopped- 2 cloves garlic, minced- 1 tomato, finely diced- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped- 1 teaspoon ground cumin- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon- 1 teaspoon paprika- Salt and black pepper to taste- 1/4 cup olive oil

For the Cooking Liquid:- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock- Juice of 1 lemon- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

**Instructions:**1. **Prepare the Squash:** - Cut off the tops of the zucchinis or squash and set them aside. - Hollow out the insides of the squash using a small spoon or a vegetable corer, leaving about 1/4 inch of the shell. Be careful not to pierce through the skin. Discard the insides or save them for another use.

2. **Make the Filling:** - In a large bowl, combine the rice, ground meat, chopped onion, garlic, tomato, parsley, mint, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and black pepper. - Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

3. **Stuff the Squash:** - Fill each hollowed-out squash with the meat and rice filling, packing it in tightly but leaving a little space at the top for the rice to expand during cooking. - Place the tops of the squash back on.

4. **Prepare the Cooking Liquid:** - In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken or vegetable stock, lemon juice, and tomato paste.

5. **Cook the Stuffed Squash:** - Place the stuffed squashes in a large pot, standing upright so they don't tip over. - Pour the cooking liquid over the squashes. - Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for about 1 hour or until the squash and rice are tender. If needed, add a little more stock or water during cooking to keep the squashes immersed.

6. **Serve:** - Carefully remove the stuffed squashes from the pot and place them on a serving platter. - Spoon any remaining sauce over the top and garnish with additional chopped parsley and mint.

7. **Enjoy:** - Allow the stuffed squash to cool slightly before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

This Turkish Stuffed Squash is not only a treat to the taste buds but also a nutritious and wholesome meal perfect for any occasion. Buon appetit!