This Indian Stuffed Eggplant recipe is a flavorful vegetarian dish that combines the earthy flavors of eggplant with a rich and spicy filling. The eggplants are stuffed with a delicious mixture of onions, tomatoes, spices, and herbs, and then roasted until tender and juicy. The result is a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. You can serve the stuffed eggplants with rice or naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Follow this simple recipe to impress your family and friends with a taste of India.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggplants
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise, leaving the stems intact.
- Score the flesh of the eggplants with a knife, making crisscross patterns.
- Rub the eggplants with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
- In the meantime, heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Add the cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt to the skillet. Mix well.
- Cook the spice mixture for 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld together.
- Remove the baked eggplants from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh from the centers of the eggplants, leaving a shell. Chop the scooped-out flesh and add it to the skillet with the spice mixture.
- Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Stuff the spiced mixture into the eggplant shells, pressing gently to fill them completely.
- Return the stuffed eggplants to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the stuffing is heated through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Interesting Facts
Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a versatile vegetable that is widely used in Indian cuisine.
This recipe can easily be made vegan by using a plant-based oil instead of vegetable oil.
Indian cuisine is known for its use of spices, which add depth and complexity to dishes like stuffed eggplant.