Instructions

1. 1
   Place mirliton halves seed-side up in a microwave- or oven-safe dish with approximately 1 inch (2.5cm) of water in the dish. Cover with foil (for oven) or plastic wrap (for microwave) and cook in oven (350°F/175°C) or microwave (high at 10 minute intervals) until mirliton are soft enough to stick a fork or knife through easily. Allow mirliton to cool enough to be handled and dice into large pieces.
2. 2
   Sauté onion, celery, and garlic in butter over medium heat, adding garlic to sauté just before onion, celery, and garlic are fully softened.
3. 3
   Add shrimp or beef to pan until beef is lightly browned or until shrimp is just turning pink. Skip this step if you aren't adding meat.
4. 4
   Incorporate mirliton and bay leaf and allow to simmer for 5–10 minutes.
5. 5
   Remove from heat and add salt, pepper, and parsley to taste. Pour mixture into a casserole dish and cover with bread crumbs.
6. 6
   Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until the mirliton is bubbling and the bread crumbs are browned.