Stuffed eggplants

Stuffed Eggplants – a Savory and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The history of stuffed eggplants is rich in flavors and culinary traditions, with deep roots in gastronomy. This recipe is a delicious combination of aromas, bringing together eggplants, minced meat, and cheese, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or as a main dish for a festive meal, stuffed eggplants are a true feast.

Ingredients:

- 4 medium eggplants (choose eggplants with even skin, without spots)
- 500 g minced meat (can be beef, pork, or a mix)
- 200 g grated cheese (feta, mozzarella, or parmesan are excellent options)
- 1 slice of bread (make sure it's good quality bread)
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 750 g tomato pulp (fresh tomatoes or canned ones are welcome)
- 1/2 cup oil (olive oil adds a special flavor)
- 1 onion (a white or yellow onion is ideal)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley (for a touch of freshness)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the eggplants: Start by cutting off the stems of the eggplants. Wash them well and dry them with a paper towel. Cut them in half lengthwise and use a knife or spoon to scoop out the flesh, leaving a wall about 1 cm thick. Place them cut side down on a clean towel and sprinkle a little salt to drain excess water.

2. Preparing the filling: In a high-sided skillet, add half of the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add two whole garlic cloves – these will flavor the oil. Leave them until they change color, then remove and discard them. Finely chop the onion and add it to the flavored oil. Sauté the onion until golden, then add the tomato pulp. Let the sauce simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. If necessary, you can add half a cup of water to achieve a more fluid consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and finally add the chopped parsley.

3. Preparing the filling for the eggplants: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, grated cheese, diced and sautéed eggplant flesh, bread soaked in water and well drained, breadcrumbs, the remaining two minced garlic cloves, two tablespoons of the prepared tomato sauce, and a little salt and pepper. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous filling.

4. Filling the eggplants: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Fill each half of the eggplant with the meat mixture, pressing gently to compact the filling. Add a tablespoon of tomato sauce over each stuffed eggplant.

5. Baking: Place the stuffed eggplants in a baking dish, drizzling them with the remaining oil. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and let the eggplants bake for another 15 minutes, until they become golden and nicely browned.

6. Serving: Stuffed eggplants are served hot, drizzled with tomato sauce and sprinkled with fresh parsley. They are delicious alongside a green salad or a side of rice or mashed potatoes.

Useful tips:

- To prevent a sour tomato sauce, add half a teaspoon of sugar to the tomato sauce. This will balance the acidity and bring a more pleasant taste.
- If you prefer a finer texture, you can sauté the minced meat before adding it to the filling.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese – goat cheese adds a stronger flavor, while mozzarella provides a creamier texture.
- Depending on your preferences, you can add vegetables like grated carrots or zucchini to the filling to diversify the recipe.

Nutritional benefits:
Eggplants are excellent sources of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them ideal for a healthy diet. Minced meat provides essential proteins, while cheese adds calcium and a delicious flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of vegetables? Yes, you can experiment with zucchini or stuffed peppers.
2. How can I make the recipe vegetarian? Replace the meat with mushrooms or lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.
3. What can I do with the leftover tomato sauce? You can use the remaining sauce for pasta or pizza, giving them a special taste.

Stuffed eggplants are an excellent choice for any occasion, and due to their versatility, you can adapt the recipe according to your preferences. Whether you choose to serve them at a special meal or as part of an ordinary dinner, this dish will surely leave a pleasant impression. Enjoy the dish with a glass of white or red wine, and savor every bite!