Eggplant Kofta Bake

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.

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Eggplant Kofta Bake