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Jazar Mahshi

PALESTINE

Stuffed Carrots

SUBMITTED BY

Lulu

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Lulu’s recipe really lets the carrot shine it all its glory. Palestinian Jazar Mahshi is a delicious and traditional dish that has been passed down through generations in Palestinian cuisine.

Jazar Mahshi, or stuffed carrots, is a beloved dish in Palestinian cuisine that beautifully reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage. This unique dish combines tender carrots filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, spices, and often ground meat. The vibrant presentation and delightful taste make Jazar Mahshi a staple at family gatherings and special occasions.

What is Jazar Mahshi?

In Arabic, “Jazar Mahshi” translates to “stuffed carrots.” The dish typically consists of hollowed-out carrots, filled with a savory filling and cooked until tender. Often served as a main course, Jazar Mahshi is usually accompanied by yogurt or a fresh salad, enhancing its flavors and making for a well-rounded meal. The bright orange color of the carrots not only adds visual appeal but also symbolizes warmth and hospitality in Palestinian culture.

Key Ingredients in Jazar Mahshi

  1. Carrots: The star ingredient, fresh and firm carrots are selected for their natural sweetness and crunch.
  2. Rice: Short-grain rice is commonly used, as it absorbs flavors well and provides a satisfying texture.
  3. Ground Meat: Ground beef or lamb is frequently included, adding richness and depth to the dish.
  4. Spices: A blend of spices such as cumin, allspice, and cinnamon is essential for giving the filling its distinctive Middle Eastern flavor.
  5. Onions: Sautéed onions provide a sweet base, complementing the other ingredients.
  6. Tomato Sauce: Often used as a cooking liquid, tomato sauce adds moisture and a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the carrots.

Preparation Method for Jazar Mahshi

Creating Jazar Mahshi involves a few key steps that are both straightforward and rewarding:

  1. Prepare the Carrots: Start with firm, straight carrots. Peel them and trim the ends. Using a corer or a small spoon, carefully hollow out each carrot, ensuring enough wall thickness to hold the filling.

  2. Make the Filling: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onions until they turn translucent. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in washed rice, spices, and a pinch of salt. Allow the mixture to cook for a few more minutes before removing it from heat.

  3. Stuff the Carrots: Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each hollowed carrot with the rice and meat mixture, packing it gently but not too tightly, as the rice will expand during cooking.

  4. Cook the Carrots: Arrange the stuffed carrots upright in a large pot. Pour tomato sauce over them and add enough water to cover the carrots halfway. Season with salt and pepper. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the rice is fully cooked.

  5. Serve: Once cooked, let the dish rest for a few minutes. Jazar Mahshi is best enjoyed warm, often garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and served alongside yogurt or a simple salad.

Nutritional Benefits of Jazar Mahshi

Jazar Mahshi is not only delicious but also nutritious. Carrots are rich in vitamins A and C, while the combination of rice and meat provides essential protein and carbohydrates. The spices enhance flavor while also offering potential health benefits, making this dish a wholesome choice.

Cultural Significance

In Palestinian culture, Jazar Mahshi is more than just a meal; it represents community and togetherness. Often prepared for family gatherings and special occasions, it embodies the warmth of Palestinian hospitality. This dish highlights the creativity and resourcefulness of home cooks who turn simple ingredients into a cherished culinary tradition.

Jazar Mahshi is a delightful representation of Palestinian cuisine, showcasing the beauty and flavor of stuffed vegetables. Its rich taste, appealing presentation, and cultural significance make it a favorite among many. Whether enjoyed at a festive gathering or a quiet family dinner, Jazar Mahshi is sure to warm the hearts of those who share it.

Jazar Mahshi

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Ingredients
  

  • 5 large sized carrots
  • 1 cup rice
  • ½ lb ground beef or lamb or a mix
  • 1 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • ½ cup tamarind sauce
  • 1 Tbsp tomato paste
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 Tbsp ghee
  • vegetable oil
  • 4 cups water
  • juice of ½ an orange
  • cinnamon powder
  • 1 Tbsp crushed garlic

Instructions
 

  • First, boil the carrots to soften them slightly.
  • Next, core the carrots. Save the insides for later.
  • In a bowl, mix 1 cup of rice, ground meat, parsley, with a tablespoon of ghee and a drizzle of vegetable oil, and salt and pepper, and bit of cinnamon.
  • Stuff the carrots with this mixture and shake them to make sure it reaches the bottom. *Leave one inch from the top of the carrot empty because rice grows as it cooks!
  • Then shallow fry the carrots in vegetable oil (until they’re bright orange). Set aside.
  • For the sauce, combine 4 cups of water, tamarind sauce, a tablespoon of tomato paste, a tablespoon of garlic, then a squeeze of half an orange. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add the insides of the carrot that you cored to this mixture and bring it to a rolling boil.
  • Once it reaches a gravy like consistency, strain it from the carrot pieces and put back on the heat. Add the carrots and bring to a simmer. Cook for 30-40 mins adding water as needed if the sauce becomes too thick.
  • Serve carrots drizzled with the sauce.
Course: Dinner
Region: Asia
Diet: Gluten Free

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I have been in the film and media industry for the past 12 years and have worked for companies including Great Big Story, ABC, CNN, Martha Stewart, News Corporation, Harper Collins and Fast Company.

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