A creative recipe has been making waves in Namibian cuisine, offering a fresh take on the humble gem squash. This innovative dish transforms the simple vegetable into a mouth-watering side dish, perfect for accompanying a favourite meal. By filling the squash with a mixture of chickpeas, garlic, onion, and jalapeños, and topping it with melted mozzarella, this recipe combines comforting flavours with a gentle kick of heat.
The recipe, developed by Michelle Tjikune, also known as NokooTheChef, requires only a few ingredients. Three whole gem squashes are needed, along with a 410g tin of chickpeas in brine, 200g of mozzarella cheese, one small onion, one teaspoon of garlic, 1½ jalapeños, one tablespoon of butter, and 100 ml of whipping cream. To add flavour, Top Class Original Flavour Seasoning and Hinds Aromatic Garlic and Herb spice are used.
Preparation of the gem squash is straightforward. The squashes are washed and cut in half, with the seeds scooped out to create space for the filling. The squash halves are then steamed in a pot with a little water for approximately 10 minutes, or until the flesh is tender but still holds its shape. Once cooked, the squash is set aside, ready to be filled.
The filling is prepared by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Finely chopped onion and garlic are added, fried until fragrant. Chopped jalapeños are then added, cooked briefly while stirring to combine. The chickpeas, drained and rinsed, are added to the onion, garlic, and jalapeño mixture, and cooked together for a few minutes.
To give the filling a creamy texture, Top Class Original Flavour Seasoning and Hinds Aromatic Garlic and Herb spice are added to taste. The mixture is then stirred, followed by the addition of whipping cream and some grated mozzarella. This blend of ingredients creates a rich and creamy filling that is then spooned into the six gem squash halves.
The final step is to bake and grill the filled gem squash. The oven is preheated to 180°C, and the squash halves are placed in an ovenproof dish, baked for approximately 10 minutes. The grill setting is then used for a few minutes, until the mozzarella melts and turns lightly golden. Care is taken to prevent burning, ensuring a perfectly cooked dish.
This innovative recipe yields six portions and can be served warm as a side dish. The combination of flavours and textures offers a unique twist on traditional gem squash, making it an attractive option for those seeking a meat-free meal. With its easy-to-follow preparation steps, this recipe is set to become a favourite among food enthusiasts in Namibia and beyond.
Key points
- The recipe uses locally available ingredients, making it accessible to Namibian cooks.
- This dish offers a creative and delicious way to enjoy gem squash.
- The recipe is meat-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
