Stuffed Eggplant (turkish Imam Bayildi)

Stuffed Eggplant, also known as Turkish Imam Bayildi, is a delicious and flavorful dish from Eastern Arabian cuisine. This vegetarian recipe features eggplants stuffed with a savory mixture of onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, making it a perfect option for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Stuffed Eggplant (turkish Imam Bayildi)

Ingredients

  • 4 small eggplants
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise, leaving the stems intact. Score the flesh in a crisscross pattern and brush with olive oil. Place the eggplants on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and cook until softened.
  4. Add the tomatoes, cumin, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
  5. Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool slightly. Carefully scoop out some of the flesh from the center of each eggplant half, leaving about a 1/2-inch border. Chop the scooped-out flesh and add it to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Stuff the eggplants with the tomato and onion mixture, then return them to the skillet. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender.
  7. Sprinkle the stuffed eggplants with chopped parsley before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
35g
Protein
5g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Baking sheet Skillet

Tools

Knife Cutting board Measuring spoons Spatula

Serving suggestions

Serve the Stuffed Eggplant with a side of fluffy rice or warm pita bread. It also pairs well with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad.

Tips & tricks

For a smoky flavor, you can grill the eggplants instead of roasting them in the oven before stuffing them.

Cost

$10