Transform Your Cooking with the NUWAVE Bravo XL – The Ultimate Air Fryer & Toaster Oven in One!

Air Fryer Convection Toaster Oven Countertop
Buy Now →Welcome to a delightful stuffed eggplant bake that’s perfect for any occasion! This recipe combines tender eggplants with a flavorful rice and vegetable filling, all topped with a cheesy crust. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s get started!
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3-4 eggplants
- 3-4 liters of water
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- Vegetable oil
- 120 grams of grated tomatoes
- 1 cup washed rice
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Sweet peppers
- Red chili pepper
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 60 grams of pizza mozzarella
- 100 grams of cottage cheese
- Dill (dry or fresh)
- Tomato sauce (Neapolitano or Marinara)
- Grated parmesan
Instructions:
- Prepare Eggplants:
- Slice 3-4 eggplants and soak them in 3-4 liters of water with 2 teaspoons of salt for 20 minutes.
- Remove the eggplants from the water and pat them dry with a towel.
- Prepare Filling:
- Finely chop 1 onion and grate 2 carrots.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan and sauté the onion and carrots until soft.
- Add 120 grams of grated tomatoes, 1 cup of washed rice, 1 cup of water, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, sweet peppers, red chili pepper, and 1 teaspoon of sugar.
- Simmer under the lid for 15 minutes until the rice is cooked.
- Stuff and Bake Eggplants:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Mix vegetable oil with sweet paprika and brush the eggplant slices with the mixture.
- Lay the eggplants on a baking tray and bake for 20 minutes.
- Assemble the Dish:
- After baking, remove the eggplants and let them cool slightly.
- Fill each eggplant slice with the prepared rice and vegetable mixture.
- Top with 60 grams of pizza mozzarella and 100 grams of cottage cheese.
- Sprinkle dill (dry or fresh) over the cheese.
- Final Baking:
- Pour tomato sauce (Neapolitano or Marinara) over the stuffed eggplants.
- Sprinkle grated parmesan on top.
- Bake at 200°C (392°F) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Serve warm and enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a sharp knife to slice the eggplants evenly.
- Adjust the level of chili pepper to your preferred spice level.
- Ensure the rice is partially cooked before stuffing the eggplants to avoid overcooking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplants are rich in fiber and antioxidants.
- The dish provides a good source of protein from the cheese and rice.
- Fresh vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian.
- Can be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a hearty and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare.
- Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prepping.
- Combines the delicious flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with a cheesy twist.
Conclusion:
This stuffed eggplant bake is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal with your loved ones! Bon appétit!