Transform your ordinary eggplants into a delicious and unique dish with this stuffed eggplant recipe topped with a savory dough. Filled with a flavorful mix of sautéed eggplant, garlic, onions, and fresh parsley, these eggplants are then covered with a soft, pillowy batter that bakes to perfection. The combination of tender baked eggplant with the rich, fluffy dough creates a mouthwatering experience perfect for a main course or a hearty side dish. Let’s explore this delightful recipe that brings a Mediterranean flair to your table.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Stuffing:
- 2 eggplants
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil
For the Dough:
- 3 eggs
- 125 ml (1/2 cup) yogurt
- 20 ml (1 1/2 tbsp) olive oil
- 250 grams (2 cups) flour
- 150 ml (2/3 cup) water
- 10 grams (2 tsp) instant yeast
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Eggplants:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1/2-inch border, and set aside the scooped-out flesh.
- Cook the Stuffing:
- In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Chop the reserved eggplant flesh and add it to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.
- Cook until the eggplant is tender. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Dough Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, yogurt, and olive oil.
- Add the flour, water, instant yeast, salt, and pepper to the egg mixture. Stir until a smooth batter forms.
- Stuff and Assemble the Eggplants:
- Fill each hollowed-out eggplant half with the cooked stuffing mixture.
- Place the stuffed eggplants in a baking dish.
- Pour the dough batter evenly over the stuffed eggplants, covering them completely.
- Bake the Eggplants:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Pair with a side of tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt dip for extra flavor.
- Enjoy as a main course or a unique side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure to scoop out enough eggplant flesh to create a generous cavity for the stuffing.
- Let the stuffing cool slightly before filling the eggplants to prevent the dough from cooking too quickly.
- For a richer flavor, add some grated cheese to the stuffing before filling the eggplants.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplants are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- The combination of yogurt and olive oil in the dough provides healthy fats and a delicious, tangy flavor.
- This dish is high in protein and lower in carbs, making it a balanced and nutritious option.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
- Can be adapted to be gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Fat: 15g
Storage Tips:
- Store 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 to retain the dough’s texture.
- Not recommended for freezing due to the dough’s texture after thawing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Unique Combination: The blend of soft eggplant stuffing with a fluffy dough topping is a delightful surprise.
- Healthy and Satisfying: Loaded with vegetables and a wholesome dough, it’s both nutritious and filling.
- Customizable: Easily add or change ingredients in the stuffing to suit your taste.
- Impressive Presentation: Makes for a stunning dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Conclusion:
This Stuffed Eggplant with Savory Dough Topping is an inventive way to enjoy the classic flavors of baked eggplant with a modern twist. Combining a flavorful stuffing of sautéed vegetables with a soft, doughy topping makes this dish both unique and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress and delight. Try it out, and you’ll have a new favorite recipe in your collection!
10 Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different vegetable instead of eggplant?
Yes, you can use zucchini, bell peppers, or large mushrooms for a similar stuffed dish. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use flax eggs, dairy-free yogurt, and vegan cheese to make it vegan. - What can I use instead of yogurt in the dough?
You can substitute yogurt with buttermilk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt. - Can I add meat to the stuffing?
Yes, cooked ground meat or shredded chicken can be added to the stuffing for a non-vegetarian version. - How do I keep the dough from becoming too dense?
Ensure the batter is mixed until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. - Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It is best served fresh; freezing may change the texture of the dough. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the stuffing and dough separately and assemble before baking. - What type of cheese would go well with this dish?
Feta, mozzarella, or a mix of cheddar and Parmesan would complement the flavors nicely. - How can I make the dough more flavorful?
Add herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the dough for extra flavor. - Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the dough may be denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.