Leonese-style Stuffed Eggplant (Berenjena Rellena a la Leonés)

Berenjena Rellena a la Leonés, or Leonese-style Stuffed Eggplant, is a traditional dish from the region of León in Spain. This flavorful and hearty dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends.

Vegetarian Gluten Free Main Course Leonese Spanish Cuisine Stuffed Eggplant Traditional Recipe
Leonese-style Stuffed Eggplant (Berenjena Rellena a la Leonés)

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 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 1/2-inch border. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
  4. Add the red bell pepper, chopped eggplant flesh, and tomato to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Stir in the cooked rice, chickpeas, parsley, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  6. Stuff the eggplant halves with the vegetable and rice mixture. Place the stuffed eggplants in a baking dish.
  7. If using cheese, sprinkle the grated cheese over the stuffed eggplants.
  8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to melt the cheese and lightly brown the tops.
  10. Serve the Berenjena Rellena a la Leonés hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
320 per serving
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
15g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Baking dish Foil

Tools

Skillet Knife Cutting board Oven

Serving suggestions

Serve the Berenjena Rellena a la Leonés with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegan version, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Cost

$10