Chad • Africa • medium • 60 mins
Chad Mahshi
Description
Mahshi is a traditional Chadian dish consisting of stuffed vegetables, typically zucchini or eggplant, filled with a spiced mixture of rice and meat. This dish is significant in Chadian culture as it reflects the resourcefulness of using local ingredients and is often prepared for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis or eggplants
- 1 cup of rice
- 250 grams of minced beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cups of vegetable or meat broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by washing the zucchinis or eggplants and cutting off the tops. Carefully hollow out the insides using a small spoon, leaving a thin wall.
- In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
- Add the minced meat to the pan, cooking until browned. Stir in the rice, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Pour in 1 cup of broth and simmer until the rice absorbs the liquid and is partially cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Stuff the hollowed zucchinis or eggplants with the meat and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack them.
- Place the stuffed vegetables in a pot and add the remaining broth. Cover and cook on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 350 per serving
Servings: 4
Dietary: dairy-free, gluten-free
⚠️ Allergens: none
Health Benefits
Mahshi is rich in essential nutrients from its main ingredients, particularly fiber from zucchinis or eggplants and protein from minced beef or lamb, which supports muscle health and satiety. The spices like cumin and coriander not only enhance flavor but also provide antioxidant properties that may promote digestive health. Being dairy-free and gluten-free, Mahshi is suitable for diverse dietary needs, making it a nutritious option for various cultural diets.
Cultural Significance
Mahshi is often prepared during family gatherings and celebrations, symbolizing hospitality and the importance of sharing meals with loved ones. It showcases the agricultural bounty of Chad and the traditional methods of cooking that have been passed down through generations.
Explore More Recipes
🌍 More Chad Recipes – Discover authentic dishes from Chad
🗺️ More Africa Cuisine – Explore recipes from across Africa
🥗 More dairy-free Recipes – Browse our dairy-free collection
👨🍳 Similar Difficulty Recipes – Find more medium recipes
🔍 Browse All Recipes – Search our complete collection of 1,000+ African and Caribbean recipes