Eggplant Kebab, or “Patlıcan Kebabı” as it’s known in Turkish cuisine, is a mouthwatering dish that combines the smoky, tender flavors of roasted eggplant with juicy, spiced minced meat. This dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious, offering a beautiful contrast between the golden, roasted eggplant and the rich, meaty filling. Eggplant is a staple ingredient in Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisines, and this recipe showcases its versatility.

While kebabs are often associated with grilling, this version is baked in the oven, making it easier to prepare without the need for an outdoor grill. The recipe also incorporates a tangy, spiced tomato sauce that not only enhances the flavors of the eggplant and meat but also keeps the dish moist during baking. What sets this dish apart is the creative way the eggplant is sliced into fan-like sections, each filled with the flavorful meat mixture. The process might seem intricate, but it’s relatively simple and fun to prepare.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 large eggplant (preferably round or slightly plump)

350-400g ground beef or lamb
1 onion (grated)
1 clove of garlic (minced)

1 tsp paprika
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Salt (to taste)
1 tbsp tomato paste

1 tbsp pepper paste (optional)
½ cup water
2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Eggplant Kebab

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Wash and dry the eggplant. Slice it in half lengthwise without peeling.
Place the eggplant halves flat on a cutting board. Make 6-7 deep slits horizontally on each half, leaving about 1 cm at the bottom to keep the eggplant intact.

Soak the eggplant in salted water for 15-20 minutes to remove bitterness.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, black pepper, chili flakes, and salt.
Mix the meat mixture thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Eggplant

Remove the eggplant from the water and pat dry.
Stuff the slits of the eggplant with the meat mixture, pressing the filling in gently.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste, pepper paste (if using), olive oil, and water. Add salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.

Stir well until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Place the stuffed eggplants in a baking dish.
Pour the sauce evenly over the eggplants.

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 50-55 minutes.
Halfway through cooking, spoon some of the sauce over the eggplants to keep them moist.
Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to let the tops crisp slightly.

Step 6: Serve

Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley and drizzle some of the sauce over the top for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips

Use a sharp knife for making even slits in the eggplant.

To prevent the eggplant from browning, always soak it in salted water before cooking.
You can prepare the meat filling and stuff the eggplants in advance, then bake them when ready to serve.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave until warm.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 22g

Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 6g

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use lamb, beef, or even ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the meat with a filling made from cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a combination of vegetables and grains.
What can I serve with Eggplant Kebab?
It pairs well with rice, bulgur, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Eggplant Kebab is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that showcases the depth of flavors in Turkish cuisine. The combination of soft, roasted eggplant, savory meat, and rich tomato sauce creates a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of character. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to try something new for dinner, this recipe offers a chance to explore new flavors and techniques.

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your tastes, whether you prefer a spicier filling or a milder version. It’s also a fantastic dish to make ahead, as the flavors only improve after resting. The eggplant and meat absorb the rich tomato sauce, resulting in a meal that’s tender, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.