Hashwe

Hashwe Recipe - Authentic Saudi Arabian Stuffed Vegetables Dish

Region / culture: Saudi Arabia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30-40 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Hashwe is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that consists of a flavorful rice stuffing cooked inside vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchinis, and tomatoes. This dish is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.

History

Hashwe has its origins in the Middle East, where it is a popular dish in countries such as Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. The word "hashwe" translates to "stuffing" in Arabic, and this dish is often served during festive occasions and celebrations.

Ingredients

2 cups water
1 cup raw long-grain rice

Stuffing

0.5 lb (227 g) finely ground lamb
0.5 lb (227 g) finely ground beef
1 pinch ground cinnamon
0.75 tsp ground allspice
salt to taste
freshly-ground black pepper to taste
3 tbsp butter

Vegetables for stuffing - choose any of the following or any combination. The mixture will fill

4 medium tomatoes, tops cut off and hollowed out for stuffing.
6 medium zucchini, cut into 3-inch lengths, hollowed out with a corer, placed on end for stuffing.
4 medium bell peppers, tops cut off and cored and seeded for stuffing.

Cooking sauce

0.5 cup water
0.25 cup canned tomato sauce
1 lemon, juice only

How to prepare

In a 2 qt (1.89 liter) covered saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
Add the rice, return to a boil, cover, and turn off the heat. Let it stand for 5 minutes.
Drain and cool the rice before proceeding with the recipe.
Thoroughly mix the cooked rice with the stuffing ingredients.
Loosely fill the vegetables with the rice mixture, leaving room at the top or sides as it will expand during cooking.
Arrange the vegetables in a covered deep skillet.
Simmer the vegetables, covered, along with the water, tomato sauce, and lemon juice on the stovetop over low heat.
Cook bell peppers and zucchini for 30 minutes, and tomatoes for 20 minutes.
Check the water level to ensure it is not evaporating. If it gets low, add more hot water.

Variations

You can use the same hashwe to stuff a chicken or turkey, or wrap it in partially cooked fresh grape leaves, Swiss chard, cabbage, or slices of eggplant.
Adding cloves of garlic to the cooking liquid will give it an authentic flavor.
You can add pine nuts or almonds to the stuffing mixture for added texture and flavor.
You can also use different vegetables such as eggplants or onions for stuffing.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly mix the cooked rice with the stuffing ingredients to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

- Loosely fill the vegetables with the rice mixture to allow room for expansion during cooking.

- Check the water level while simmering the vegetables to prevent it from evaporating. Add more hot water if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Hashwe can be served as a main dish with a side of salad or yogurt.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the vegetables in a covered skillet allows them to cook slowly and absorb the flavors of the cooking sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground chicken or turkey instead of lamb and beef for a lighter version of Hashwe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice stuffing mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to stuff the vegetables and cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Hashwe in a large serving dish garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Hashwe pairs well with a side of tabbouleh salad and hummus for a complete Middle Eastern meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Hashwe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hashwe contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hashwe contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hashwe contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Hashwe contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Hashwe is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron due to the vegetables used in the recipe.

Alergens

Hashwe contains dairy (butter) and meat (lamb and beef), so it may not be suitable for individuals with dairy or meat allergies.

Summary

Hashwe is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Hashwe is a delicious and nutritious Middle Eastern dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With a flavorful rice stuffing cooked inside vegetables, this dish is sure to be a hit with your loved ones.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was given to me by a dear friend who had learned it from her Lebanese grandmother. The dish was called Hashwe, a fragrant and flavorful mix of ground beef, rice, and aromatic spices. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically smell the warm, comforting aroma that would fill my kitchen as it cooked.

I had always been drawn to trying new recipes and expanding my culinary repertoire. Growing up, my mother and grandmother had taught me the basics of cooking, but as I ventured out on my own, I was eager to learn more. I would often host dinner parties and experiment with different cuisines, always seeking to impress my guests with delicious and unique dishes.

When my friend shared the recipe for Hashwe with me, I knew I had to give it a try. I gathered all the ingredients - ground beef, long-grain rice, cinnamon, allspice, and pine nuts - and set to work in my kitchen. As I sautéed the beef and toasted the pine nuts, the rich, savory scents filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As the dish simmered on the stove, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tried before - a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with a hint of warmth from the spices. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Hashwe countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add a bit more cinnamon for a stronger flavor, or swap out the pine nuts for almonds for a different texture. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that first time I tried it, and I am filled with a sense of nostalgia and contentment.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover Hashwe, I am reminded of all the wonderful recipes and culinary traditions that have been passed down to me over the years. From my mother's comforting chicken soup to my grandmother's decadent chocolate cake, each dish holds a special place in my heart and brings back memories of family gatherings and shared meals.

I am grateful for the friends and loved ones who have shared their recipes with me, allowing me to expand my culinary horizons and create new memories in the kitchen. Cooking has always been a source of joy and comfort for me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue learning and growing as a chef.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Hashwe, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the delicious dishes that await me in the future. Who knows what new recipes I will discover next, or what culinary adventures lie ahead? One thing is for certain - my love of cooking will continue to fuel my passion for creating delicious and memorable meals for years to come.