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Mediterranean Stuffed Eggplant
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1/2-inch shell. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped eggplant flesh, cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, parsley, mint, feta cheese, garlic, red onion, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Stuff the eggplant shells with the quinoa mixture, mounding it on top.
- Place the stuffed eggplants on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little more olive oil. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the filling is heated through.
- Serve the Mediterranean stuffed eggplant hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Mediterranean Stuffed Eggplant, also known as Imam Bayildi, has a rich history dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Legend has it that a Turkish imam fainted with delight after tasting this dish, hence the name which translates to "the imam fainted." This traditional dish is popular in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Turkey, Greece, and the Middle East. The eggplant is hollowed out and stuffed with a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and aromatic herbs like parsley and mint. It's then baked to perfection, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors. Renowned chefs like Yotam Ottolenghi have put their own spin on this classic recipe, making it a staple in modern Mediterranean cooking. For the best version of this dish, head to Istanbul or Athens, where local chefs have perfected the art of preparing Imam Bayildi. The key to getting this dish right lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together during the cooking process. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, Mediterranean Stuffed Eggplant is a true culinary delight that captures the essence of the region's vibrant flavors and history.
60 min
4
320 calories
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