This recipe for Stuffed Eggplant with Mushroom and Tomato Cream Sauce is a delightful combination of tender baked aubergines, savory mushroom filling, and a creamy tomato sauce. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family meal. The melted mozzarella on top adds the perfect finishing touch to this comforting dish.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 aubergines (eggplants)
- Salt, to taste
- Plant-based oil (for brushing and sautéing)
- 1 onion, finely chopped (for filling)
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 450 g mushrooms, finely chopped
- 150 g tomatoes, finely diced
- Sweet paprika, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 onion, finely chopped (for sauce)
- 1-2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups pureed tomatoes
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup cream
- Fresh dill, finely chopped
- 100 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
Directions:
Prepare the Eggplants:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and score the flesh with a knife, creating a crosshatch pattern.
- Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Pat the eggplants dry with a paper towel, then brush them with plant-based oil.
- Place them cut-side up on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes at 190°C.
Prepare the Filling:
6. Heat plant-based oil in a large pan over medium heat.
7. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
8. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
9. Add the mushrooms and cook until their moisture evaporates and they turn golden brown.
10. Stir in the diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Cook for 5 minutes and set aside.
Prepare the Tomato Cream Sauce:
11. In another pan, heat plant-based oil and 1-2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
12. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
13. Stir in 2 cups of pureed tomatoes, 1 tsp of sugar, and cook for 5 minutes over medium heat.
14. Add 1/2 cup of cream and stir well. Cook for another 2 minutes.
15. Add chopped dill and stir to combine.
Assemble the Dish:
16. Remove the eggplants from the oven and scoop out some of the flesh, leaving enough to hold their shape.
17. Mix the scooped-out flesh into the mushroom filling.
18. Stuff each eggplant half with the mushroom mixture and place them in a baking dish.
19. Pour the tomato cream sauce over the stuffed eggplants.
20. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
Bake the Dish:
21. Reduce the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F) and bake the stuffed eggplants for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve:
22. Garnish with additional dill if desired.
23. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Serve with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Complement with a light white wine or sparkling water.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the eggplant flesh to avoid tearing the skin.
- Substitute mozzarella with your preferred cheese, such as parmesan or cheddar, for different flavors.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplants: High in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Mushrooms: A great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C and lycopene, which support immune health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-free.
- Can be made vegan with appropriate substitutions.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Combines a variety of flavors and textures for a satisfying meal.
- Easy to customize with different fillings or sauces.
- A great way to use fresh vegetables for a healthy and delicious dish.
- Perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Conclusion:
Stuffed Eggplant with Mushroom and Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting and nutritious recipe that’s sure to impress. The combination of tender eggplant, savory filling, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates a dish that’s as hearty as it is flavorful. Serve it as a main course or a side dish and enjoy a taste of wholesome comfort food