Eggplant Kofta Bake is a savory and aromatic dish combining tender eggplant layers with spiced meatballs, all enveloped in a rich, tomato-based sauce. This comforting Middle-Eastern-inspired bake is perfect for a hearty family dinner or a delightful gathering.
Ingredients
🟣 2 large eggplants
🥩 2 pounds ground beef
🧅 1 medium-sized onion, finely diced
🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
🌿 1/2 cup mix of parsley and cilantro, chopped
🧂 1/2 tablespoon salt
🌶️ 1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika
🌿 1 teaspoon cumin
🌿 1 teaspoon coriander
⚫ 1 teaspoon black pepper
🌶️ 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
💧 1 1/2 cups hot water
🍅 3 tablespoons tomato paste
🥫 1/2 tablespoon chicken bouillon mix
Instructions
1- Prep the Eggplants:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Slice the eggplants into ¼-inch rounds and if desired, lightly salt them to draw out moisture.
- Rinse and pat them dry after a few minutes.
2- Prepare the Kofta Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley and cilantro, salt, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3- Assemble the Bake:
- In a baking dish, arrange a layer of eggplant slices.
- Form small meatballs from the kofta mixture and place them over the eggplant layer.
- Alternate between layers of eggplant and kofta until all ingredients are used, ending with an eggplant layer.
4- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix hot water with tomato paste and the chicken bouillon.
- Stir until smooth and well combined.
5- Bake the Dish:
- Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the eggplant and kofta layers.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
6- Finish Baking:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to brown slightly and the flavors to meld perfectly.
7- Serve:
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8
Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Nutritional Information per Serving: Proteins 28g, Fats 28g, Carbohydrates 14g
Equipment: Oven, baking dish, mixing bowl, foil
Cooking Tips:
- Preferably use lean ground beef to reduce excess fats.
- You can swap or add spices to match your taste preferences.
- Add a layer of cheese for extra flavor if desired.
#eggplant #kofta #bake #dinner #familymeal #middleeastern #comfortfood
YouTube channel - EmanInTheKitchen: https://www.youtube.com/@EmanInTheKitchen