Karniyarik (stuffed Eggplant Rolls)

Karniyarik is a delicious Tajik dish made with stuffed eggplant rolls. The eggplants are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, onions, and spices, then rolled up and cooked to perfection. This dish is a popular choice for special occasions and gatherings, and it's sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and unique presentation.

Karniyarik (stuffed Eggplant Rolls)

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants
  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise, leaving the stems intact. Score the flesh with a knife in a crisscross pattern.
  3. Place the eggplants on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
  4. While the eggplants are roasting, prepare the filling. In a skillet, cook the ground meat and onions until the meat is browned and the onions are soft.
  5. Add the tomatoes, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, then stir in the chopped parsley.
  6. Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool slightly. Carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin shell. Chop the flesh and add it to the filling mixture.
  7. Stuff the eggplant shells with the filling, then roll them up and secure with toothpicks.
  8. Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the stuffed eggplant rolls seam side down. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the rolls are browned and cooked through.
  9. Serve the Karniyarik hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Baking sheet Skillet Sharp knife Toothpicks

Tools

Oven Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Serve the Karniyarik with a side of rice pilaf and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground meat with cooked lentils or chickpeas for the filling.

Cost

$15