Shrimp Stuffed Mirlitons (Chayote Or Vegetable Pears) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

4 large chayotes (mirlitons or vegetable pears)
1 large onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
1/2 cup chopped celery
3 tablespoons shortening
3/4 lb fresh cooked shrimp, cleaned
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1/4 cup buttered bread crumb
salt and pepper

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350F.
Parboil mirlitons/chayote/vegetable pears until almost tender.
Cut in half and scoop out the meat; mash and set aside, reserving shells.
Saute onion and garlic in shortening until translucent; add celery and cook until tender.
Add mashed mirlitons, shrimp, 1/2 of the cheese, and salt and pepper to the sauteed vegetables.
Fill the reserved shells, cover with remaining cheese and bread crumbs.
Bake until crumbs have browned, approximately 30 minutes.