Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C). While it heats, trim the ends off each courgette and slice them lengthwise. Use a teaspoon to scoop out the seedy centre, leaving a sturdy boat shape about 1cm thick on the sides and base. You'll hear a gentle scrape as the spoon removes the flesh — stop when you see the pale green, firm flesh underneath.

Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent and smells sweet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant — that sharp, pungent aroma tells you it's ready.

Add the beef mince to the pan. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, letting it brown for 5-6 minutes. You'll see the pink turn to deep brown, and you'll hear a satisfying sizzle as the moisture evaporates. Once no pink remains, stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano, cooking for 1 minute until the spices become fragrant.

Pour in the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, and beef stock. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You'll see small bubbles breaking the surface, and the sauce will thicken slightly after 3-4 minutes — it should coat the back of a spoon without being runny. Season with salt and pepper.

Place the courgette boats cut-side up in the pan, nestled into the beef mixture. Spoon some of the sauce and beef evenly into each boat, pressing down gently so the filling mounds slightly above the edge. The boats should be snug in the pan, surrounded by the remaining sauce.

Sprinkle the grated cheese over each filled boat. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. You'll know they're done when the cheese is bubbling and golden in spots, and the courgettes are tender but still hold their shape — pierce one with a fork; it should slide in easily with slight resistance.

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. During this time, the juices settle and the boats firm up slightly. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve directly from the pan for minimal cleanup.