Koosa (Stuffed Squash)
A flavorful Middle Eastern dish featuring tender stuffed squash filled with seasoned rice and lamb, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Rich, savory, and aromatic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the stems off the squash, scoop out the seeds, and wash the squash.
- In a bowl, combine rice, ground lamb, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and allspice.
- Stuff each squash with the rice and lamb mixture.
- Place the stuffed squash in a pot, add tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, and enough water to cover.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 60 minutes or until the squash is tender and the filling is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful filling, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the rice and lamb mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground lamb with ground turkey or a plant-based protein. Adjust the spices to your taste, and feel free to add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint for freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed squash with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Lenten Borsht(For Holy Supper) for a wholesome meal. For a heartier spread, consider including crusty bread or rice pilaf as additional sides.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed squash in a pot with a bit of water and steam them gently on the stove, or microwave them until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help keep them moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Koosa (Stuffed Squash) contains roughly 136 calories, with 7g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1294mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the stuffed squash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed squash a day in advance. After stuffing, cover them tightly and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply add the tomato sauce and water before bringing to a boil. This will make dinner preparation much easier on busy evenings.
What if I can't find medium squash?
If medium squash is unavailable, you can use zucchini or even bell peppers as alternatives. Just ensure they are large enough to hold the filling. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check for tenderness as you simmer the stuffed vegetables.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed squash after cooking. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).