Berenjenas Rellenas (chilean-style Stuffed Eggplants)

Berenjenas Rellenas, or Chilean-style Stuffed Eggplants, are a delicious and hearty dish that is popular in Chilean cuisine. This recipe features tender eggplants stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, onions, and spices, then baked to perfection. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Berenjenas Rellenas (chilean-style Stuffed Eggplants)

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup cooked rice
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)

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 thick shell. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  5. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped eggplant flesh and cook for a few minutes until softened.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked rice, raisins, and chopped parsley.
  7. Stuff the eggplant shells with the meat mixture and place them in a baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the grated cheese on top.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the filling is heated through.
  9. Serve the stuffed eggplants hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop and Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
20g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Baking dish Skillet Knife Cutting board Spoon

Tools

Oven Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Serve the Berenjenas Rellenas with a side of fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or chickpeas for a delicious meat-free alternative.

Cost

$15