Maqlooba (damascus-style Eggplant And Tomato Stew)

Maqlooba, also known as "upside-down" in Arabic, is a traditional Syrian dish that features layers of eggplant, tomato, rice, and meat. This flavorful and aromatic stew is a popular choice for family gatherings and special occasions.

Maqlooba (damascus-style Eggplant And Tomato Stew)

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced
  • 1 lb lamb or chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 4 tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Season the meat with salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat and brown the meat. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic until softened. Add the rice and stir for 2 minutes. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Arrange the sliced eggplants and tomatoes over the rice. Place the browned meat on top of the vegetables. Cover the pot and cook over low heat for 30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the meat is tender.
  4. Once done, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 10 minutes. Carefully invert the pot onto a large serving platter, allowing the layers to form an "upside-down" presentation.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Large pot Serving platter

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons Large spoon

Serving suggestions

Serve the Maqlooba hot with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and use additional vegetables such as cauliflower or carrots.

Cost

$20