Ingredients:

• 4 large and thick eggplants: These will be the main star of the dish, providing a hearty base.
• 2 tbsp Salt: Used for drawing out the moisture from the eggplants.
• 3 liters Water: Needed for soaking the eggplants and cooking the rice.
• 1 Onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the vegetable mixture.
• 1 Pepper, chopped: Provides a slight crunch and a hint of sweetness.
• 1 Tomato, chopped: Adds juiciness and acidity to balance the flavors.
• 1 Carrot, chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and additional texture.
• 60 ml Vegetable oil (for frying): Used to sauté the vegetables and enhance their flavors.
• 1 cup Rice: A filling and hearty component that absorbs the flavors of the dish.
• 200 ml Water: For cooking the rice until tender.
• 1 tsp Salt: For seasoning the rice and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
• 1/2 tsp Thyme: Offers an earthy, slightly minty flavor that complements the vegetables.
• 50 ml Vegetable oil (for brushing): Used to brush the eggplants before baking to achieve a golden, crispy finish.
• 1/2 bunch Parsley, chopped: Freshens up the dish with its bright, herbal notes.
• 1 tsp Thyme: Enhances the flavor of the stuffing and complements the other herbs.
• 1 tsp Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, adding richness and color to the stuffing.
• 1 tsp Salt: Balances the flavors in the stuffing mixture.
• 120 ml Water: Helps create a sauce to keep the stuffing moist and flavorful.
• 50 grams Cheddar cheese, grated: Adds a creamy, melty topping that makes the dish even more irresistible.
• Parsley (for garnish): A fresh and vibrant garnish to finish the dish.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplants:
   • Begin by washing the eggplants thoroughly. Cut off the ends and slice them in half lengthwise. Make sure to keep the eggplants thick enough to hold the stuffing later on.
   • Place the eggplants in a large bowl and sprinkle them with 2 tablespoons of salt. Cover the eggplants with 3 liters of water and let them soak for about 20 minutes. This step helps to draw out any bitterness from the eggplants and prevents them from absorbing too much oil during cooking.
   • After soaking, rinse the eggplants under cold running water to remove the excess salt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
2. Cook the Rice:
   • In a medium saucepan, heat 200 ml of water over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup of rice, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of thyme. Stir well to combine.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove the rice from the heat and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetable Stuffing:
   • In a large frying pan, heat 60 ml of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, pepper, tomato, and carrot to the pan. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened and slightly caramelized.
   • Add the cooked rice to the pan with the sautéed vegetables, stirring well to combine. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of tomato paste, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Pour in 120 ml of water to create a moist stuffing. Stir everything together until well mixed and heated through. Remove from heat.
4. Stuff and Bake the Eggplants:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the eggplant halves on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
   • Brush the cut sides of the eggplants with 50 ml of vegetable oil. This will help them brown and crisp up in the oven.
   • Spoon the prepared vegetable and rice stuffing into the cavities of each eggplant half, pressing the mixture down gently to fill them evenly.
   • Bake the stuffed eggplants in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the stuffing is golden and slightly crisp on top.
5. Finish with Cheese and Garnish:
   • Once the eggplants are baked, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of each stuffed eggplant.
   • Return the eggplants to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Garnish the finished dish with fresh parsley before serving.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While cheddar cheese provides a nice sharpness and melts beautifully, you can use mozzarella for a milder flavor, or even feta for a tangy twist.

Q: How can I make this dish vegan?
A: Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also substitute the rice with quinoa or couscous for a different texture.

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed eggplants ahead of time, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fats: 15g
• Fiber: 8g
• Vitamin A: 25% of the Daily Value
• Vitamin C: 30% of the Daily Value
• Calcium: 10% of the Daily Value
• Iron: 12% of the Daily Value

This dish is a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. The eggplants are low in calories but high in antioxidants, while the rice and vegetables provide complex carbohydrates and essential nutrients.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
• Freezing: If you wish to freeze the stuffed eggplants, do so before baking. Wrap each stuffed eggplant half individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions.

Cooking Tips:

• Eggplant Preparation: Soaking the eggplants in salted water is crucial for reducing bitterness and achieving a tender texture. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
• Rice Variety: For a different texture, try using brown rice, quinoa, or even couscous as a substitute for white rice.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the stuffing with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. This dish is highly versatile and can accommodate your favorite veggies.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or mint can be added to the stuffing for an extra burst of flavor. Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

Conclusion:

This eggplant dish is a wonderful example of how simple, affordable ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The combination of tender, roasted eggplant, savory vegetable and rice stuffing, and the irresistible topping of melted cheddar cheese makes this dish a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Serve it with a fresh salad or a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal!