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.

Arbëreshë Eggplant Casserole (Patëllxhanë të Mbushur)

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

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 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.
  3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
  4. 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.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the tomato sauce, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Fill the eggplant shells with the meat mixture and place them in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
  8. 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