Turkish Stuffed Eggplant Recipe for a Hearty Meal

Introduction

Are you looking to add some Mediterranean flair to your dinner table? Look no further than the delicious and hearty Turkish stuffed eggplant dish, known as “Karniyarik.” This traditional recipe combines tender eggplants with a flavorful filling, creating a satisfying meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to prepare this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this Turkish delight:

– 4 medium-sized eggplants
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1/2 cup water
– Feta cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the eggplants and slice them in half lengthwise, leaving the stem intact. Score the inside of each half with a knife and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to release any bitterness, then rinse and pat dry.
3. Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Place the eggplants in the pan, cut side down, and cook until golden brown. Remove from the pan and place them in a baking dish.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the onions until translucent. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and tomato, and cook until the vegetables are soft.
5. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the ground beef or lamb. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
6. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the water and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
7. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
8. Fill each eggplant half with the meat mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the foil, top each eggplant with crumbled feta cheese if desired, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Serve the stuffed eggplants hot, garnished with extra parsley. Enjoy your Turkish stuffed eggplants with a side of rice or salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

This Turkish stuffed eggplant recipe is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. The fusion of flavors and textures will transport you to the bustling streets of Turkey with every bite. Give it a try and delight your taste buds with this comforting and delicious dish!

FAQ About Turkish Stuffed Eggplant Recipe

1. What is a Turkish stuffed eggplant recipe?

A Turkish stuffed eggplant recipe, also known as “Karniyarik” in Turkish cuisine, is a delicious dish that involves stuffing eggplants with a mixture of seasoned ground meat, onions, tomatoes, and various spices. The eggplants are then baked until tender, creating a hearty and flavorful meal.

2. What ingredients are typically used in Turkish stuffed eggplant?

The main ingredients for Turkish stuffed eggplant include eggplants, ground meat (usually lamb or beef), onions, tomatoes, garlic, parsley, bell peppers, tomato paste, olive oil, and a mix of spices such as cumin, paprika, and black pepper.

3. How is Turkish stuffed eggplant traditionally served?

Turkish stuffed eggplant is commonly served hot with a side of creamy yogurt or tangy Turkish cacık (tzatziki) sauce. It can be enjoyed on its own as a main dish or paired with rice pilaf and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

4. Can the Turkish stuffed eggplant recipe be customized?

Yes, the Turkish stuffed eggplant recipe can be easily customized to suit personal preferences. For a vegetarian version, the ground meat can be substituted with cooked