Eggplant Boats Filled with Savory Mince

This delightful recipe offers a fusion of flavors, transforming simple eggplants into delicious boats filled with savory mince. Ideal for family dinners or a fancy gathering, these boats boast a combination of minced meat, juicy tomatoes, and tangy peppers, making them both satisfying and nutritious. The addition of spices such as garlic and adjika introduces a spicy aroma that enriches the flavor profile. With a crispy layer of cheese melted on top, these boats cater to a variety of taste preferences. They're easy to prepare and visually appealing, making them a favorite among home cooks. The contrast of the tender eggplant with the hearty filling creates a harmony of textures. This recipe is flexible, allowing for substitutions based on dietary needs or personal preferences. Enjoy these delicious eggplant boats as a standalone dish or pair them with a fresh, green salad for a complete meal experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 eggplants (serves 4)
• 3 tomatoes
• 1/2 bell pepper
• 0.5 kg minced meat
• 200 g cheese
• 5 cloves of garlic

Spices

• 1/2 tsp adjika
• Ground black pepper
• Salt

Preparation Time

Total Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Minced Meat: Begin by cooking the minced meat in a pan. Add a pinch of ground black pepper and a dash of salt to enhance the meat’s flavor.

2. Dice the Vegetables: Finely chop two tomatoes and half of the bell pepper, ensuring the pieces are small enough to integrate well with the meat mixture.

3. Grate the Cheese: Divide the cheese in half. Grate the first half and add to the diced vegetables. Reserve the second half for topping.

4. Prep the Eggplants: Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise, and carefully scoop out the pulp to create hollow boats.

5. Mix Ingredients: Once the minced meat has cooled slightly, blend it with the vegetable and cheese mixture. Ensure the flavors are well-combined.

6. Add Aromatics: Crush or finely grate the garlic cloves and mix them with the vegetable and meat blend. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of adjika for a bit of heat.

7. Season the Eggplants: Sprinkle a small amount of salt inside each eggplant boat to season them.

8. Fill the Boats: Gently pack the mixture into each eggplant half, making sure they are filled generously with the savory blend.

9. Bake the Boats: Arrange the filled eggplants on a baking tray and place them into a preheated oven. Bake at 150 degrees Celsius (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

10. Garnish Before Serving: Before serving, cut the remaining tomato into quarters and secure each piece onto the eggplant boat with a cocktail stick, emulating a sail atop a boat.

Tips

• Substitutions: Substitute minced meat with diced mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as feta or mozzarella for varied flavors.
• Extra Heat: If you prefer more spice, increase the amount of adjika or add a dash of hot sauce.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based mince and cheese alternatives.
• Keto-Friendly: Ensure the cheese and meat are of high-fat content, with minimal carbohydrates.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: Pair with a fresh arugula or spinach salad.
• Beverage Pairing: Complement with a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea.

Best Places

1. The Eggplant Oasis - Known for its creative aubergine dishes. Location: 123 Flavor St, Athens, Greece.

2. Mediterranean Marvels - A cozy spot with a range of stuffed dishes. Location: 45 Spice Ave, Istanbul, Turkey.

3. Gourmet Greens - Offers innovative takes on traditional recipes. Location: 78 Fresh Rd, Barcelona, Spain.

4. Global Gourmet Café - A fusion-themed restaurant with globally inspired menus. Location: 124 Bites Blvd, New York, USA.

5. Herb & Spice Eatery - Focuses on fresh and flavorful culinary experiences. Location: 67 Herb Ln, Rome, Italy.

6. Eden’s Delights - Famous for its plant-based interpretations. Location: 90 Garden Dr, Sydney, Australia.

7. The Culinary Loft - Known for its artistic plating and gourmet presentations. Location: 12 Chef Ave, Paris, France.

8. Ocean View Bites - Offers an ocean-inspired menu, including baked delicacies. Location: 3 Ocean St, Cape Town, South Africa.

9. Rustic Eats & Treats - Specializes in hearty and rustic fare. Location: 50 Country Rd, Dublin, Ireland.

10. Flavor Fusion - A blend of classic recipes with modern twists. Location: 88 Spice St, Mumbai, India.