Are you tired of the same old recipes? Looking for something tasty, yet budget-friendly? Look no further! We’ve got a hidden gem for you – a delightful eggplant dish that’s both delicious and easy on the wallet. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our fantastic recipe!
1. Introduction
Are you craving something new for dinner? Want a dish that’s both delicious and affordable? Look no further! We’re about to introduce you to an amazing recipe that will change the way you think about eggplant. Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to culinary delight!
2. Ingredients
- 2 eggplants (aubergines)
- 1 carrot, peeled and grated
- 1 red onion, cut into half rings
- 3.5 ounces (about 3/4 cup) of flour
- 3.5 ounces (about 1 cup) of grated cheese
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 3 eggs
- 2 cloves of garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon of salt + to taste
- Three turns of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- Enough garlic powder
- Enough paprika
- Enough pepper
3. Preparation Process
Let’s dive into the cooking process step by step:
Preparing the Eggplant
- Trim and peel the eggplants, then grate them.
- Place the grated eggplants in a fine mesh strainer and salt them with 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Mix well and squeeze them to eliminate excess water.
Mixing Ingredients
- Transfer the squeezed eggplants to a bowl and add eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Integrate grated garlic cloves, paprika, tomato paste, and flour gradually, mixing until smooth.
Cooking the Vegetable Mix
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil into a non-stick pan.
- Add red onion and let it brown, then add grated carrot.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mix well, and turn off the heat.
Assembling and Baking
- Grease a rectangular glass baking dish with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
- Spread half of the eggplant mixture, then add the onion-carrot mix, chopped dill, and grated cheese.
- Close with the remaining eggplant mixture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 35 minutes.
4. Tips for Success
- Ensure the eggplants are well drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varying flavors.
- Add herbs like basil or oregano for an extra kick of flavor.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Serve the eggplant dish hot, straight from the oven.
- Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats or fish.
6. Health Benefits
- Eggplants are low in calories and rich in fiber, making them great for weight management.
- They are also packed with antioxidants that help protect against cell damage.
- This recipe includes healthy fats from olive oil, which are beneficial for heart health.
7. Why You’ll Love It
This eggplant dish is not only delicious but also budget-friendly and easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies into your diet!
8. FAQs
Q: Can I use other vegetables in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different veggies to suit your taste preferences.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians? A: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain any meat or animal products.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free? A: Simply substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers for future meals. Just make sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, this eggplant recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meals without breaking the bank. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and delicious results, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. So why wait? Grab those eggplants and get grating!
Now that you’ve discovered the secret to tasty and affordable meals, it’s time to get cooking! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own. Your taste buds will thank you!
