Arbëreshë Eggplant Casserole (Patëllxhanë të Mbushur)
Patëllxhanë të Mbushur, or Arbëreshë Eggplant Casserole, is a traditional dish from the Arbëreshë cuisine, which is a unique culinary tradition of the Arbëreshë community in Italy. This flavorful casserole is made with eggplant, ground meat, and a variety of herbs and spices, creating a delicious and comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 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 1/4-inch shell. Chop the scooped-out eggplant flesh and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in the chopped eggplant flesh, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the tomato sauce, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
- Fill the eggplant shells with the meat mixture and place them in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
- Serve the Patëllxhanë të Mbushur hot and enjoy!
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 30 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 1 hour
- Total time:
- 1 hour
- Cooking method
- Oven
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 300 per serving
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 15g
- Fat
- 18g
Supplies
Baking dish Foil
Tools
Skillet Knife Cutting board
Serving suggestions
Serve the Patëllxhanë të Mbushur with a side of fresh salad and crusty bread.
Tips & tricks
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms.
Cost
$15