These stuffed eggplants are a savory and satisfying dish filled with seasoned minced meat, vegetables, and topped with melted cheese. The eggplants are roasted to perfection, and the flavorful filling with spices like paprika, cumin, and coriander makes each bite irresistible. Ideal for a cozy dinner, this dish is a great combination of textures and flavors.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- For the Eggplants:
- 2 eggplants, cut into 1-1.5 cm thick pieces
- 30 ml olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/3 teaspoon pepper
- For the Filling:
- 2 peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 300 g minced meat (beef, lamb, or chicken)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 8 g ginger, finely grated
- 1/3 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander
- A bunch of parsley, chopped
- 200 g tomato puree
- 150 ml water
- For the Topping:
- 150 g mozzarella, shredded
- 60 g Parmesan (optional), grated
Directions
- Prepare the Eggplant:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with 30 ml of olive oil and sprinkle with salt, dried garlic, paprika, oregano, and pepper.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
- Cook the Filling:
- In a large pan, sauté the chopped onion for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add the sliced peppers and fry for another 5 minutes until tender.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the minced meat and cook until browned.
- Add the paprika, ginger, cumin, coriander, and salt. Stir well.
- Pour in the tomato puree and water, then simmer for 10-15 minutes until the filling thickens and all flavors are well combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) again.
- Spoon the filling into the roasted eggplant slices.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan (optional) on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Enjoy your stuffed eggplants with a flavorful and cheesy filling!
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of couscous or rice for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- For a low-carb option, enjoy with a side of sautéed spinach or kale.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra richness.
Cooking Tips:
- To ensure the eggplant slices cook evenly, make sure they are of uniform thickness.
- If the filling is too watery, simmer for a bit longer to thicken it up.
- Use a mix of mozzarella and a sharp cheese like Parmesan for more flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add some chili flakes to the filling.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplants are a great source of dietary fiber and antioxidants.
- The addition of vegetables like peppers and onions adds essential vitamins.
- Minced meat provides a good source of protein.
- Mozzarella cheese is a great source of calcium and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs or none at all)
- Low-Carb
- Suitable for omnivores
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat in the oven to keep the texture intact.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a delicious combination of tender eggplant, savory minced meat, and melted cheese.
- The spices bring a warm and aromatic flavor, making it a comforting dish.
- It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a special gathering.
Conclusion:
These stuffed eggplants are a flavorful and filling dish that makes a great dinner option for those looking for something comforting yet healthy. The savory filling, combined with the creamy cheese topping, creates a perfect balance of flavors. It’s easy to prepare, customizable with different proteins, and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplant?
Yes, you can use zucchini or bell peppers as alternatives to eggplant. - Can I use ground turkey or chicken for the filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner option. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed eggplants and refrigerate them until ready to bake. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze the stuffed eggplants?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving. - What can I serve with these stuffed eggplants?
A side salad, rice, couscous, or steamed vegetables pair well with this dish. - How do I know when the eggplants are done roasting?
They should be tender and lightly browned when done. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you skip or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. - Can I make these eggplants vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the meat with plant-based options like lentils or tempeh.