In this Traditional Lebanese dish, kousa is stuffed with a savory meat and rice mixture and simmered in a flavorful tomato broth until tender.

– 8 kousas (small/medium sized) – 20 ounces tomato juice (or tomato paste mixed with water) – 1 pound ground sirloin – ½ cup uncooked long grain white rice (rinsed) – 1 teaspoon salt – ½ teaspoon pepper – 6 cloves garlic (grated) – 2 tablespoon dried mint – 2 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice – Plain yogurt to serve (optional)

Ingredients

Step 1

Before you start stuffing the squash, place the tomato juice or tomato paste/water mixture in a large pot, and heat on medium high until boiling.

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Step 2

Gently add in the stuffed kousa. Bring to a boil then turn to low and simmer for 35 minutes. The meatballs are the perfect way to see if the rice is fully cooked.

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