Mostar Stuffed Eggplant (Mostarska Punjena Patlidžan)
Mostarska Punjena Patlidžan, or Mostar Stuffed Eggplant, is a traditional Bosnian dish that features tender eggplants stuffed with a flavorful mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1/2-inch shell. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and garlic. Add the chopped eggplant flesh, tomatoes, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the cooked rice, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
- Stuff the eggplant shells with the meat and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the tops with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place the stuffed eggplants in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the filling is heated through.
- Serve the Mostarska Punjena Patlidžan 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
- 20g
- Fat
- 18g
Supplies
Baking dish Skillet Knife Cutting board
Tools
Oven Stove
Serving suggestions
Serve the Mostarska Punjena Patlidžan with a side of crusty bread and a fresh green salad 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