Stuffed Eggplant with Curry and Rice

This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of tender eggplant, fragrant curry, and perfectly cooked rice for a satisfying meal. The baked eggplants serve as an edible bowl, stuffed with aromatic rice and a hearty chickpea curry. The combination of spices such as turmeric, coriander, and cumin create an irresistible aroma and depth of flavor. Coconut milk adds a creamy texture, balancing the spices for a harmonious taste. This recipe is perfect for those seeking something unique, yet comforting for a family dinner. The preparation might take some time, but the result is worth every minute. Whether you're trying to impress your guests or treat your family to a special meal, these stuffed eggplants are sure to be a hit. Serve it up with a side salad or a warm flatbread to complete the meal. Dive into this exploration of flavors and enjoy every bite!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 eggplants
• 350 ml rice
• 2 onions
• 2 grated carrots
• 1 bell pepper
• 1 can chickpeas
• 250 ml coconut milk
• 200 ml tomato sauce

Spices and Sauces

• 1 tsp each of salt, pepper, turmeric, ginger, cumin, coriander, garlic powder
• 2 tsp curry powder
• 1 bouillon cube

Preparation Time

80 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C.
2. Brush the eggplants with oil and bake them for 40 minutes until tender.
3. While the eggplants are baking, rinse the rice under cold water.
4. In a pot, add the rice with double the amount of water (700 ml) and a pinch of salt. Boil for 12 minutes, then cover with a towel and let sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the water.
5. Start the curry by sautéing the onions in a bit of oil until golden brown.
6. Add the grated carrots to the onions, stirring occasionally.
7. Mix in all the dry spices, letting them cook for a few minutes to release their aromas.
8. Add the bell pepper and chickpeas, cooking these until the peppers are soft.
9. Pour in the coconut milk and tomato sauce, stirring everything together.
10. Crumble the bouillon cube into the mixture and stir until well incorporated.
11. Once the eggplants are ready, remove them from the oven and lower the temperature to 180°C.
12. Make a vertical incision in the eggplants and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a small border.
13. Add the scooped-out eggplant flesh to the curry, mixing it in thoroughly.
14. Fill each eggplant shell with the cooked rice, pressing it down gently.
15. Top the rice with the curry mixture, ensuring each eggplant is evenly covered.
16. Place the stuffed eggplants back in the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
17. Remove from the oven once done and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
18. Serve the stuffed eggplants warm and enjoy your meal!

Tips

• Use long-grain rice for a fluffier texture.
• If pressed for time, canned coconut milk can be substituted with a quick homemade version made from coconut flakes and water.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder to the curry.

Variations

• Swap chickpeas for lentils for a different texture.
• Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein boost.
• For a lighter version, replace coconut milk with almond milk.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad.
• Serve alongside naan or flatbread to soak up the curry sauce.
• Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or mint for added freshness.

Best Places

• The Curry House - Known for innovative twists on traditional curries, this spot is a must-visit. Location: 123 Spice Lane, Mumbai, India.
• Eggplant Bistro - Famous for their creative use of eggplants in gourmet dishes. Location: 456 Garden Ave, San Francisco, USA.
• Rice & Spice - Offers a diverse menu with a focus on rice-based dishes. Location: 789 Central Blvd, Bangkok, Thailand.
• Taste of India - A cozy place offering authentic Indian flavors. Location: 321 Tandoori St, London, UK.
• Veggie Delight - Specializes in vegetarian adaptations of traditional dishes. Location: 654 Greenway Dr, Sydney, Australia.
• Café Coconut - Known for their coconut-inspired menu. Location: 987 Island St, Bali, Indonesia.
• Chickpea Heaven - Focuses on chickpea-based dishes in various styles. Location: 258 Legume Rd, Cairo, Egypt.
• Spice Route - Offers a culinary journey through various spices of the world. Location: 753 Flavor Ln, Istanbul, Turkey.
• The Lentil Table - Known for lentil-based creations. Location: 369 Plant Blvd, Vancouver, Canada.
• Fusion Feast - Combines ingredients and styles from different cuisines for a delightful fusion experience. Location: 841 Crossroad St, Tokyo, Japan.