Stuffed eggplants with meat

Delicious Stuffed Eggplant Recipe

I propose a savory recipe that combines the rich flavors of eggplant with a succulent meat filling. This stuffed eggplant recipe is not just a main dish but a true celebration of taste, perfect for impressing family and friends. Additionally, it is a versatile recipe that you can adapt according to your preferences. So, let’s start this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 large eggplant (approximately 500 g)
- 150 g minced meat (you can use a mix of pork and veal, poultry, or veal)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 small bunch of fresh dill
- Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 150 ml tomato juice (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of tomato paste
- 100 ml white wine (or to taste)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons of grated cheese
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the eggplant:
Start by washing the eggplant well under cold running water. Use a clean towel to dry it. Cut the eggplant in half lengthwise and use a spoon or knife to scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1 cm wall. This process is called "hollowing" and helps create a perfect vessel for the filling.

2. Sprinkling with lemon:
After hollowing the eggplants, sprinkle each half with lemon juice and a little salt. Let them rest for 10-15 minutes to soften and absorb the flavor. This step is important to avoid the bitterness typical of eggplant.

3. Rinsing and drying:
After marinating, rinse the eggplants under cold water and let them dry on an absorbent towel.

4. Preparing the filling:
In a pan, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic until golden. Add the minced meat and chopped eggplant flesh, mixing well. Cook everything over medium heat until the meat is well done.

5. Seasoning:
Towards the end, add the tomato paste, salt, pepper, thyme, and chopped dill. Mix well, taste, and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

6. Filling the eggplants:
Fill each half of the eggplant with the meat mixture, making sure it is well packed. Place the stuffed eggplants in a greased baking dish with olive oil.

7. Adding the sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the white wine and tomato juice. Pour this sauce evenly over the stuffed eggplants.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the dish with eggplants inside. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the eggplants are nicely browned.

9. Finishing:
After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven, beat the egg, and pour it over the eggplants. Sprinkle the grated cheese and return to the oven for another 10 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns golden.

10. Serving:
Allow the eggplants to cool slightly before serving. They can be perfectly accompanied by sour cream or yogurt, which adds a touch of freshness and creaminess.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the eggplant: Make sure to choose firm eggplants without spots or soft areas. A quality eggplant will make a difference in the texture and taste of the dish.
- Meat variations: You can experiment with different types of minced meat, such as turkey or beef, depending on your dietary preferences.
- Adding vegetables: You can incorporate vegetables such as carrots or zucchini into the filling for added nutrients and flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This dish is rich in fiber, thanks to the eggplants, which aid digestion. Additionally, the minced meat provides essential protein, and garlic and dill are known for their antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of vegetables? Yes, you can replace eggplants with zucchinis or peppers, depending on your preferences.
- How can I store stuffed eggplants for later consumption? You can freeze the stuffed eggplants before baking or after they have been baked. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a light beer are excellent choices to complement the flavors of the stuffed eggplant.

Serving suggestions:
For an even more special meal, you can add a green salad with cherry tomatoes and a simple vinaigrette. This will provide a pleasant contrast to the warm and hearty dish.

This stuffed eggplant recipe is definitely a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!