This recipe isn’t just another eggplant dish – it’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Forget the mess and calories of frying, because this baked version delivers all the deliciousness without the greasy hassle.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced about 1 centimeter thick
- Olive oil (approximately 30 milliliters)
- Salt (to taste)
- Garlic powder
- Black pepper
- Sweet paprika
- Dried oregano
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 medium peppers (any color), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 300 grams ground meat (beef or lamb)
- 8 grams sweet paprika
- 8 grams ground ginger
- Ground cumin
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Prepare the Eggplants: 2. In a large bowl, toss the eggplant slices with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. Ensure all slices are evenly coated. 3. Spread the seasoned eggplant slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly golden brown.
Cook the Meat Sauce: 4. While the eggplant bakes, heat a pan over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and peppers, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. 6. Add the ground meat to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. 7. Season the meat mixture with paprika, ginger, and cumin. Stir in a splash of water to deglaze the pan (scrape up any browned bits).
Assemble and Bake: 8. Once the eggplant is cooked, remove it from the oven and reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F). 9. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. Arrange the baked eggplant slices on top, then spoon the remaining sauce over the eggplant. 10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the dish is heated through.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of rice or couscous for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure to slice the eggplant evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste preference.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the ground meat with lentils or chickpeas.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggplants: Low in calories and high in fiber.
- Ground Meat: Provides protein.
- Vegetables: Add essential vitamins and minerals.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Yes
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Healthy: Baked instead of fried, reducing calories.
- Flavorful: Packed with spices and savory goodness.
Conclusion
This Baked Eggplant Flavor Explosion is a fantastic addition to your meal repertoire. Its rich flavors and healthy ingredients make it a perfect choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Enjoy the delicious, comforting taste of this dish without the guilt. Bon appétit!