Sheikh al-mahshi needs similar-sized courgettes, a relatively dry cooked filling and gently heated yoghurt sauce. Over-hollowing weakens the courgettes; overly thick walls may stay hard. Leave enough wall to support the filling without making each piece heavy.
Ingredients
For four portions, prepare eight small courgettes, 400 g mince, one small onion, one tablespoon oil and optional pine nuts. For sauce, use 700 g pasteurised yoghurt, one tablespoon cornflour dissolved in a little water, two garlic cloves, dried mint and salt.
This home version stabilises yoghurt with cornflour. Traditional methods differ, so follow one consistent method. Consider milk allergies and omit pine nuts when unsuitable for guests.
Filling and courgettes
Cook onion and mince until moisture evaporates and meat reaches 71°C. Add spices and optional pine nuts, then cool slightly. Wash and gently hollow courgettes, filling without heavy compression or overflowing the opening.
Lightly brown courgettes in a pan or roast with a light brushing of oil. Add a little hot water and cook until nearly soft, rather than relying on yoghurt sauce to cook hard vegetables for a long time.
Yoghurt sauce
Whisk yoghurt, dissolved cornflour and water until smooth. Heat gradually while stirring until thoroughly hot and thickened, avoiding prolonged vigorous boiling. Gently add courgettes, garlic and mint, then finish until tender and the filling is hot throughout.
Previously cooked, refrigerated filling must reach 74°C at its centre. Avoid forceful stirring: move the pot gently or spoon sauce over the courgettes. Serve with plain rice or rice with vermicelli.
Why did the yoghurt sauce separate?
Excessive heat, sudden heating or insufficient stabilisation may cause separation. Lower the heat and review whisking and cornflour preparation next time. Do not add dry flour directly to the hot pot; it may clump and alter texture.
Related products from ALRAQI MEATS
Beef Mince - 1 kg, or Local Naimi Lamb Mince - 1 kg. Check the product page for weight, ingredients and cutting options before ordering. Choose a cut suited to the cooking method; a boneless or mixed-meat label alone does not guarantee suitability for quick cooking.
Further guidance
Safe minimum cooking temperatures, Refrigerated food storage.