Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling

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Baked eggplant stuffed with savory meat filling on a white plate

Delicious Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling to Help You Lose Weight

Introduction:
If you’re on a weight loss journey, finding satisfying, flavorful dishes can make a world of difference. This Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling is not only delicious but also supports your goals to lose weight. Packed with veggies and lean protein, this recipe delivers a healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor while keeping calories in check.

Eggplant is a low-calorie vegetable rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety. Combined with a savory filling of lean ground beef or turkey, this dish provides essential nutrients without weighing you down. It’s an excellent option for those looking to lose weight without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggplants, sliced into 0.4-inch thick rounds
  • Olive oil for brushing
  • Salt, to taste
  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Sweet paprika, to taste
  • Oregano, to taste
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 2 bell peppers, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.7 lb (320 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • Ground cumin, to taste
  • Ground ginger, to taste
  • Ground coriander, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, to taste
  • 8.8 oz (250 g) crushed tomatoes
  • 2/3 cup (160 ml) water
  • 5.3 oz (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Healthy Substitutions:

  • Substitute ground turkey for ground beef to reduce fat content.
  • Use low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese to cut calories.

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C).
  2. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices lightly with olive oil and season with a mix of salt, garlic powder, black pepper, sweet paprika, and oregano.
  3. Arrange the seasoned eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until they are tender and slightly charred.
  4. In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Add the diced bell peppers and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until the peppers are slightly softened.
  6. Stir in the ground beef (or turkey), seasoning with cumin, ginger, and coriander. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked.
  7. Mix in the chopped fresh parsley, crushed tomatoes, and water. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
  8. In a baking dish, layer half of the baked eggplant slices at the bottom. Spread a generous amount of the savory meat filling over the eggplant.
  9. Top with the remaining eggplant slices and cover with the rest of the meat filling. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
  10. Return the assembled dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Why This Recipe Helps You Lose Weight:

This Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling is a great dish for anyone trying to lose weight for several reasons. First, the eggplant serves as a low-calorie base loaded with fiber, which helps control hunger. The inclusion of lean protein from the ground beef or turkey aids in muscle preservation during weight loss, helping you feel fuller for longer. Furthermore, the blend of spices adds flavor without adding extra calories or unhealthy fats.

Calorie-Conscious Tips:

  • Pair this dish with a side salad to increase your vegetable intake and make your meal more filling.
  • When preparing your portions, consider using smaller plates to trick your mind into feeling satisfied with less food.

Meal-Prep or Storage Tips:

  • This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • You can freeze individual portions for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.

Nutrition Highlights:

  • Rich in vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
  • Provides a good source of protein from the meat.
  • Low in calories while being high in flavor, making it ideal for weight loss.

In conclusion, this Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling is a delicious and healthy recipe that can help you on your journey to lose weight. Its medley of flavors and healthy ingredients will satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track. Give it a try and discover a new favorite in your weight-loss-friendly meal rotation!