Ingredients
Turkey Mince Filling
· 1 lb turkey mince
· 1 tsp salt
· ½ tsp black pepper
· 1 tsp paprika
· ½–1 tsp chili pepper (to taste)
· 1 tbsp soy sauce
· ½ cup blended seasoning (escallion, onion, garlic, clove, pimento)
· 1 tbsp oil
· ¼–½ cup water (as needed for sauce)
· 2 tbsp ketchup
· 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
· ½ cup shredded cheese (for topping)
Cream Sauce
· 1 ½ cups milk
· ¼ cup blended seasoning
· 1 tbsp parsley–garlic oil
· 3–4 tbsp cream cheese
· 1–2 tsp sugar (toCalabash Prep
· 1 medium calabash
· Salt water (2 cups water + 1 tbsp salt)
· Extra cheese for topping
· Paprika for garnish taste)
· 1–2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
Calabash Prep
· 1 medium calabash
· Salt water (2 cups water + 1 tbsp salt)
· Extra cheese for topping
· Paprika for garnish
Method
1. Prepare the Turkey Mince
1. Season turkey mince with salt, pepper, paprika, chili pepper, soy sauce, and blended seasoning.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add seasoned turkey and cook until lightly browned.
4. Add water to create a sauce base.
5. Stir in ketchup and BBQ sauce.
6. Simmer until the sauce reduces and thickens.
7. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Cream Sauce
1. Heat parsley–garlic oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add blended seasoning and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
3. Pour in milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth.
5. Add sugar to taste.
6. Reduce heat and stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken.
7. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Calabash
1. Wash calabash thoroughly.
2. Slice off a thin piece lengthwise to create an opening.
3. Use a knife to score the inside, then scoop out the flesh with a spoon.
4. Soak the empty shell in salted water for 10–15 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F.
6. Remove calabash from salt water and drain well.
4. Assemble & Bake
1. Layer the inside of the calabash:
o Spoon a layer of cream sauce
o Add a layer of turkey mince
o Repeat until the shell is full
2. Finish with a final layer of cream sauce.
3. Sprinkle cheese on top and dust lightly with paprika.
4. Bake at 350°Funtil the cheese melts and the calabash shell is tender (about 20–30 minutes).
5. Let cool slightly before serving.