Karniyarik is a classic Turkish dish that showcases the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. This traditional stuffed eggplant recipe features tender eggplants filled with a delicious mixture of ground meat, onions, tomatoes, and spices, making it a favorite among Turkish cuisine lovers. If you are looking to explore authentic Turkish flavors, Karniyarik is a must-try dish.
What is Karniyarik?
Karniyarik, which translates to “split belly” in Turkish, gets its name from the way the eggplant is prepared. The eggplants are slit down the middle and filled with a savory meat mixture before being baked to perfection. This dish is often served with rice pilaf and a side of yogurt, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.
The History of Karniyarik
Karniyarik is deeply rooted in Ottoman cuisine and has been enjoyed for centuries. It reflects the traditional cooking methods of the Turkish people, incorporating fresh vegetables, high-quality meat, and aromatic spices. Over time, this dish has spread across the Middle East and Mediterranean, with slight regional variations in preparation and ingredients.
Ingredients for Karniyarik
To make this delicious Turkish stuffed eggplant dish, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Eggplants:
- 4 medium-sized eggplants
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
For the Filling:
- 250g ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tomatoes (diced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
How to Make Karniyarik
Follow these simple steps to prepare authentic Turkish Karniyarik at home:
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplants
- Wash the eggplants and peel them in a striped pattern.
- Cut a slit down the middle of each eggplant without cutting all the way through.
- Sprinkle salt over them and let them sit for 30 minutes to remove excess bitterness.
- Rinse and pat dry, then heat olive oil in a pan and lightly fry the eggplants until they soften.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onions until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and ground meat, cooking until browned.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until the flavors meld together.
- Remove from heat and mix in the chopped parsley.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place the softened eggplants in a baking dish and gently open the slit in the middle.
- Stuff each eggplant with the prepared meat filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce and Bake
- In a small bowl, mix tomato paste, water, and sugar.
- Pour this sauce over and around the stuffed eggplants.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes until the eggplants are fully cooked.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Karniyarik is best enjoyed with:
- Turkish rice pilaf
- Cacık (Turkish yogurt with cucumber and garlic)
- Fresh salad
Variations of Karniyarik
Although the classic Karniyarik is made with ground beef or lamb, there are several variations of this dish:
- Vegetarian Karniyarik – Instead of meat, use a mixture of mushrooms, lentils, and chickpeas.
- Cheesy Karniyarik – Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking for a rich, creamy flavor.
- Spicy Karniyarik – Add chopped chili peppers or extra paprika for a fiery kick.
Karniyarik is a flavorful and comforting Turkish dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean ingredients. Whether you are new to Turkish cuisine or a seasoned fan, this stuffed eggplant recipe is a great way to experience the richness of traditional flavors. Try making Karniyarik at home and enjoy a taste of Turkey in your own kitchen!
For more Turkish recipes and culinary history, check out these resources:
