Arbëreshë Chickpea Stew (Patëllxhanë të Mbushur)
Patëllxhanë të Mbushur, or Arbëreshë Chickpea Stew, is a traditional dish from the Arbëreshë cuisine, a unique blend of Italian and Albanian flavors. This hearty stew is packed with chickpeas, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, halved lengthwise
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scoop out the flesh of the eggplants, leaving about a 1/2-inch border. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Add the chopped eggplant flesh, tomatoes, chickpeas, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Stuff the eggplant halves with the chickpea mixture and place them in a baking dish. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and golden brown.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 20 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 1 hour
- Total time:
- 1 hour
- Cooking method
- Stovetop
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 300 per serving
- Carbohydrates
- 45g
- Protein
- 12g
- Fat
- 8g
Supplies
Baking dish Skillet
Tools
Knife Cutting board Oven
Serving suggestions
Serve the Patëllxhanë të Mbushur with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips & tricks
For a smoky flavor, you can grill the eggplant halves instead of baking them in the oven.
Cost
$10