Eggplant with Meat
This delicious Eggplant with Meat recipe combines the rich flavors of tender meat and roasted eggplant, creating a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 500 grams of ground meat (beef or lamb)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to create boats. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to remove bitterness.
- In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon, and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground meat to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until the meat is browned, then season with salt and pepper.
- Mix in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Rinse the salted eggplants under cold water and pat them dry. Place them in a baking dish, cut side up.
- Fill each eggplant half with the meat mixture, pressing down slightly to pack it in.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the meat is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
FAQ
- 1. Can I use different meat for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
- 2. Is it necessary to salt the eggplants?
- Salting the eggplants helps to reduce bitterness and remove excess moisture, improving texture.
- 3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and bake it when ready to serve.
- 4. What can I serve with Eggplant with Meat?
- This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or a side salad.
- 5. How long can I store leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- 6. Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, Eggplant with Meat can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
- 7. Is this a healthy dish?
- It can be a healthy option, especially if you use lean meat and serve it with plenty of vegetables.
- 8. Can I add vegetables to the meat mixture?
- Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini are great additions.
