Stuffed Melon "Kavun Dolmasi" From Ottoman Cuisine

ground meat

🥗Healthier: lean turkey

💰Cheaper: ground chicken

Turkey is lower in fat, while chicken is often more affordable.

pine nuts

🥗Healthier: sunflower seeds

💰Cheaper: chopped almonds

Sunflower seeds offer a similar crunch at a lower cost.

currants

🥗Healthier: dried cranberries

💰Cheaper: raisins

Cranberries provide a tangy flavor, while raisins are more economical.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a high smoke point and is healthier, while canola is often less expensive.

Cut the melon in half and scoop out the seeds.

Mix rice, ground meat, chopped onion, chopped parsley, chopped dill, and melted butter in a bowl.

Add salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and all-spice to the mixture.

Stir in whole almonds, pistachios, and dried currants until well combined.

Stuff the melon halves with the rice and meat mixture, pressing down gently.

Place the stuffed melon halves in a baking dish.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens