Berenjenas Rellenas: Spanish Stuffed Eggplant Recipe

Introduction

Berenjenas Rellenas, or Spanish Stuffed Eggplants, are a delicious and satisfying dish that originates from Spain. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of eggplant with a savory filling, creating a unique and flavorful meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you are a fan of Mediterranean cuisine or looking to try something new, Berenjenas Rellenas is a must-try dish that will elevate your culinary skills.

Ingredients

To make Berenjenas Rellenas, you will need the following ingredients:

– 2 large eggplants
– 1/2 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup of raisins
– 1/4 cup of pine nuts
– 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Grated cheese for topping (optional)
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the skin. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.

3. In a pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

4. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

5. Stir in the chopped eggplant flesh, red bell pepper, tomato, raisins, pine nuts, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the flavors have blended.

6. Lightly brush the eggplant skins with olive oil and place them on a baking dish. Fill each eggplant half with the meat and vegetable mixture.

7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender.

8. If desired, remove the foil, sprinkle some grated cheese on top of the stuffed eggplants, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Enjoy your flavorful and aromatic Berenjenas Rellenas – a taste of Spain right in your own kitchen!

FAQs About Berenjenas Rellenas: Spanish Stuffed Eggplant Recipe

What are Berenjenas Rellenas?

Berenjenas Rellenas are a traditional Spanish dish where eggplants are stuffed with a savory filling, typically including ingredients like ground meat, onions, tomatoes, and spices. The filled eggplants are then baked until tender, creating a delicious and hearty meal.

How do you make Berenjenas Rellenas?

To make Berenjenas Rellenas, start by cutting the eggplants in half and scooping out the flesh to create a hollow shell. The filling is prepared by sautéing ingredients like meat, onions, garlic, and herbs before stuffing it into the eggplant halves. The dish is then baked until the eggplant is tender and the flavors have melded together.

What ingredients are commonly used in Berenjenas Rellenas?

Common ingredients used in Berenjenas Rellenas include eggplants, ground meat (such as beef or lamb), onions, garlic, tomatoes, herbs like parsley and oregano, breadcrumbs, and cheese. The filling can be customized to suit individual preferences, making it a versatile dish.