Eggplant Kebab

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this scrumptious Eggplant Kebab recipe! Bursting with flavors and textures, this dish is perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Let’s dive into the delightful world of ingredients and preparation:

Ingredients: 📚

1. Eggplants: Opt for 2 large and thick eggplants. These versatile veggies will serve as the star of our kebab.
2. For greasing the eggplants: Prepare a mixture of half a glass of vegetable oil, adding a teaspoon of red paprika and salt for that extra kick of flavor.
3. Minced Meat: You’ll need 300 grams of high-quality minced meat. Choose your favorite type, whether it’s beef, lamb, or a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option.
4. Aromatic Vegetables: Enhance the taste with a finely chopped onion, half a red kapya pepper, and half a green kapya pepper. These colorful additions will add depth to the dish.
5. Garlic: Crush 2 cloves of garlic to infuse the kebab with its distinctive aroma and flavor.
6. Tomatoes and Paste: Incorporate 2 grated tomatoes and a tablespoon of tomato paste for a rich, tangy sauce base.
7. Seasonings: Spice things up with a teaspoon each of red paprika, black pepper, and salt. Adjust the quantities according to your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
8. Vegetable Oil: Reserve a quarter glass of vegetable oil for sautéing and adding a glossy finish to the dish.
9. Grated Cheese: Finally, sprinkle a generous cup of grated cheese over the kebab before baking, adding a delightful cheesy goodness to each bite.

Preparation Method:

1. Prepping the Eggplants: Begin by slicing the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips. Lay them flat and generously brush both sides with the prepared oil mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving a tender, flavorful result.
2. Cooking the Meat Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the minced meat with the chopped onions, kapya peppers, and crushed garlic until golden brown and fragrant. Stir in the grated tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings, allowing the flavors to meld together into a savory sauce.
3. Assembling the Kebabs: Take each eggplant strip and spoon a portion of the meat mixture onto one end. Carefully roll it up, securing the filling inside, and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat this process until all the eggplant strips are filled and arranged snugly in the dish.
4. Baking to Perfection: Drizzle the remaining vegetable oil over the assembled kebabs and sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Transfer the baking dish to a preheated oven and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the eggplants are tender.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, allow the kebabs to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt for added freshness and enjoy this delightful dish with friends and family!

With its irresistible combination of tender eggplants, flavorful meat filling, and gooey cheese topping, this Eggplant Kebab is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. Buen provecho! 🥰