Aubergine and Potato Bake with Mozzarella and Ham

This Aubergine and Potato Bake with Mozzarella and Ham is a hearty, savory dish that brings together tender roasted aubergine slices, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich mozzarella and ham stuffing. The flavors meld beautifully as the dish bakes, with the creamy mozzarella complementing the soft potatoes and the slight crispness of the aubergine. This dish makes for a delicious main course or a satisfying side for any meal.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4 people

Cuisine

This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, where aubergines, mozzarella, and potatoes are often used in various baked dishes. The addition of ham and the technique of roasting vegetables makes it both comforting and full of flavor.

Full List of Ingredients

• 3 aubergines, thinly sliced
• Vegetable oil, for drizzling
• Salt, to taste

For the Stuffing:

• 600 g potatoes, boiled and mashed
• Salt, to taste
• Spring onion, chopped
• Black pepper, to taste
• 250 g mozzarella, shredded
• 8 slices cooked ham for toast, chopped
• 50 g mozzarella, for topping

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Aubergines
   Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Lay the thinly sliced aubergines on a baking tray, drizzle with vegetable oil, and sprinkle with salt. Roast them in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly golden.

2. Prepare the Stuffing
   While the aubergines are roasting, boil the potatoes until soft, then mash them with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Add the chopped spring onion to the mashed potatoes and mix well.

3. Add the Mozzarella and Ham
   Stir the shredded mozzarella and chopped cooked ham into the mashed potatoes. Mix until the ingredients are evenly combined.

4. Assemble the Dish
   Once the aubergines are roasted, take them out of the oven. Spoon a layer of the mashed potato stuffing onto each aubergine slice and arrange the stuffed slices back on the baking tray.

5. Top with Mozzarella
   Sprinkle the remaining 50 g of mozzarella over the top of the stuffed aubergines.

6. Bake
   Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve
   Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Serve the aubergine and potato bake as a main or a side dish.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 15 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Cholesterol: 25 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Aubergines (or eggplants) are widely used in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. They are often roasted, stuffed, or baked to create a satisfying and healthy dish. This recipe combines the rich flavors of aubergine, potatoes, mozzarella, and ham, inspired by classic Mediterranean cooking.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful: The combination of tender aubergine, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey mozzarella is irresistibly delicious.
2. Comforting: This dish is hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for family meals or cozy dinners.
3. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together quickly, perfect for weeknight dinners.
4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the stuffing by adding other ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or garlic to suit your tastes.
5. Great for Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated for lunch the next day.

Health Benefits

1. Aubergines: Low in calories and high in fiber, aubergines support digestive health and are rich in antioxidants.
2. Potatoes: A good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin C, potatoes provide energy and support immune health.
3. Mozzarella: Mozzarella provides protein and calcium, which are essential for muscle and bone health.
4. Ham: Ham is a good source of protein, but it’s best to use it in moderation due to its sodium content.

Serving Suggestions

1. With a Side Salad: Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or a Mediterranean salad for a complete meal.
2. With Rice or Quinoa: Serve alongside steamed rice or quinoa for a filling, well-rounded meal.
3. As a Side: This baked aubergine and potato dish makes a perfect side for grilled meats or roasted chicken.

Cooking Tips

1. Slice the Aubergines Thinly: Make sure to slice the aubergines thinly so they cook evenly and absorb the flavors better.
2. Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overstuffing the aubergine slices so that the filling doesn’t spill out while baking.
3. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the mashed potatoes before assembling the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Use Fresh Mozzarella: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh mozzarella cheese.

Variations to Try

1. Vegan Version: Replace the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese and omit the ham for a vegan version of this dish.
2. Add More Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini into the stuffing for added flavor and nutrition.
3. Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the mashed potatoes or sprinkle on top of the dish for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Aubergine and Potato Bake with Mozzarella and Ham is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines roasted aubergines, creamy mashed potatoes, and a cheesy stuffing for a satisfying meal that’s easy to make. Whether served as a main course or as a side, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or even vegan cheese for a different flavor.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when ready to serve.

3. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
   Yes, you can add spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the stuffing for more flavor and nutrients.

4. Can I use frozen aubergine slices?
   Yes, you can use frozen aubergine slices, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

5. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, you can replace the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein option.

6. Can I make this dish spicier?
   Yes, you can add chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to the filling for an extra spicy kick.

7. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

8. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just thaw it and bake as directed when ready to serve.

9. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, simply omit the ham and use a plant-based cheese to make it vegetarian.

10. What can I serve this with?
    This dish pairs well with a side salad, rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.