Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/19 checked
6
servings
6 unit

zucchini

halved, pulp scooped

1 tsp

kosher salt

divided

0.38 tsp

black pepper

divided

3 tbsp

olive oil

divided

0.75 cup

jasmine rice

uncooked

6 unit

cardamom pods

whole

1 unit

cinnamon stick

3-inch

0.5 tsp

ground cumin

0.13 tsp

ground red pepper

1.25 cup

water

0.33 cup

dried apricots

coarsely chopped

0.5 tsp

orange rind

grated

2 tbsp

lemon juice

fresh

2 tbsp

orange juice

fresh

0.33 cup

pistachios

chopped, shelled, dry-roasted, unsalted

0.25 cup

fresh dill

chopped

0.25 cup

fresh parsley

chopped flat-leaf

0.25 cup

goat cheese

crumbled

1 cup

chickpeas

rinsed and drained

Step 1
~3 min

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2
~3 min

Cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the pulp.

Step 3
~3 min

Chop the zucchini pulp and set aside.

Step 4
~3 min

Place zucchini halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5
~3 min

Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.

Step 6
~3 min

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes or until tender.

Step 7
~3 min

Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Step 8
~3 min

Add 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Step 9
~3 min

Add rice, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick.

Step 10
~3 min

Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is opaque.

Step 11
~3 min

Add 1/4 teaspoon salt, cumin, red pepper, and 1 1/4 cups water.

Step 12
~3 min

Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 12 minutes.

Step 13
~3 min

Remove from heat and stir in chopped apricots.

Step 14
~3 min

Cover and let stand for 10 minutes.

Step 15
~3 min

Discard cardamom pods and cinnamon stick.

Step 16
~3 min

Spoon the rice mixture into a large bowl and cool slightly.

Step 17
~3 min

Combine remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, orange rind, lemon juice, and orange juice in a small bowl.

Step 18
~3 min

Whisk the mixture until well combined.

Step 19
~3 min

Add the dressing, reserved zucchini pulp, pistachios, dill, parsley, chickpeas, and goat cheese to the rice mixture.

Step 20
~3 min

Toss well to combine.

Step 21
~3 min

Preheat broiler to high.

Step 22
~3 min

Spoon about 1/4 cup of the rice mixture into each zucchini shell.

Step 23
~3 min

Broil for 6 minutes or until lightly browned.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Toast the pistachios lightly for enhanced flavor.

Add a pinch of saffron to the rice for a more authentic Persian flavor.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

15 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

The rice stuffing can be prepared a day ahead.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Moderate
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt.

Accompany with a simple green salad.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Cucumber and yogurt dip (Tzatziki)
Shirazi Salad

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Iran

Cultural Significance

Persian cuisine is known for its intricate flavors and use of aromatic herbs and spices.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Nowruz (Persian New Year)
Mehregān (Autumn Festival)

Occasion Tags

Dinner Party
Weeknight Meal
Vegetarian Gathering

Popularity Score

70/100

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