5 eggplant recipes you'll love
What's the story
Eggplant, or aubergine, is one of the most versatile vegetables you can cook with. Its unique texture and mild flavor make it an ideal candidate for a variety of dishes. While most of us are familiar with the traditional eggplant recipes, there are plenty of surprising ways to include this vegetable in your meals. Here are five creative eggplant recipes that will surprise your taste buds and add a twist to your culinary repertoire.
Stew delight
Eggplant and lentil stew
Eggplant and lentil stew is a hearty dish that combines the richness of lentils with the subtle flavor of eggplant. Start by sauteing onions, garlic, and diced eggplant until soft. Add cooked lentils, vegetable broth, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and coriander. Let it simmer until the flavors meld together. This stew is not only filling but also packed with protein and fiber.
Stir-fry twist
Spicy eggplant stir-fry
A spicy eggplant stir-fry is an easy way to whip up a quick meal without compromising on taste. Slice the eggplant into thin strips and toss them in a hot pan with oil, ginger, garlic, bell peppers, and chili flakes for heat. Stir-fry until everything is tender but still crisp. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying dish that packs a punch.
Quinoa surprise
Eggplant stuffed with quinoa
Stuffing eggplants with quinoa makes for a nutritious meal that's loaded with flavor. Halve the eggplants lengthwise and scoop out some flesh to make room for the filling. Mix cooked quinoa with diced tomatoes, onions, herbs like parsley or basil, and spices such as paprika or turmeric before stuffing the mixture back into the eggplant halves. Bake until everything is tender.
Dip delight
Creamy eggplant dip
Creamy eggplant dip makes for an excellent appetizer or snack option when served alongside pita bread or vegetable sticks. Roast whole eggplants until soft from inside, then blend them together with tahini paste, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving chilled.
Roll it up
Grilled eggplant rolls
Grilled eggplant rolls make for an elegant appetizer option that guests will love at any gathering. Slice eggplants lengthwise into thin strips, brush lightly with olive oil, and grill until tender yet firm enough to hold shape. Then roll them around a filling made from ricotta cheese mixed with spinach leaves, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper, and bake briefly just enough to warm through completely.