Discover this flavorful Turkish-inspired eggplant recipe that’s not only easy to prepare but also healthy and incredibly delicious. Roasted eggplants are layered with sautéed vegetables and topped with cheese, creating a warm, comforting dish that bursts with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 eggplants
- 7 oz (200 g) cherry tomatoes, cut in half
- 1 pepper, cut into pieces
- 3 onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2.5 oz (70 g) grated cheese
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped parsley (to taste)
- Paprika (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Eggplants
- Trim and Slice the Eggplants
Start by trimming the ends of the eggplants and slicing them into round pieces, about 1/2 inch thick. - Salt the Eggplants
Place the eggplant slices on a cutting board and sprinkle salt over them generously. Let them rest for 10-15 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplants. - Remove Excess Moisture
After resting, dab the eggplants with an absorbent paper towel to remove the moisture that has been drawn out. - Bake the Eggplants
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Place the eggplant slices on a dripping pan lined with parchment paper, season with pepper, and drizzle a little olive oil over them. Bake for about 20 minutes until they are tender and slightly golden.
Step 2: Cooking the Vegetables
- Sauté the Onions and Pepper
In a non-stick pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they become soft and translucent. - Add the Pepper and Tomatoes
Add the chopped pepper pieces to the pan and continue to cook until they become tender. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and stir well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices. - Season the Vegetables
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings, then turn off the heat.
Step 3: Assembling the Dish
- Prepare the Parsley Mixture
In a small bowl, combine chopped parsley, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside. - Grease the Baking Dish
Grease a rectangular glass baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. - Layer the Ingredients
Start by placing a layer of the baked eggplant slices at the bottom of the dish. Spread some of the parsley mixture and sautéed vegetables over the eggplants. Continue layering the remaining eggplant slices, parsley mixture, and vegetables until all ingredients are used. - Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the layered eggplants and vegetables.
Step 4: Bake the Dish
- Bake Until Golden Brown
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly. - Serve Hot
Serve the Turkish-style eggplant hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired, and enjoy the medley of flavors.
Tips for a Perfect Turkish Style Eggplant Dish
- Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh, ripe vegetables will provide the best flavor and texture for this dish. If possible, use seasonal produce. - Experiment with Seasonings
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add a pinch of cumin or oregano for an extra layer of flavor. - Cheese Options
You can use mozzarella, feta, or even a mix of cheeses to suit your preference. Feta will add a nice tangy flavor, while mozzarella provides a creamy, melty texture.
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approx. 180 per serving
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 10g
This Turkish-style eggplant recipe is a delightful and healthy way to enjoy vegetables. With its layers of tender eggplant, flavorful vegetables, and melted cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine!
