There’s something magical about the combination of tender, roasted eggplant, savory spiced meat, and a creamy, garlicky sauce. This Stuffed Eggplant with Spicy Garlic Tahini Sauce is a dish that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe will not disappoint.
Stuffed eggplant is a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, known for its rich flavors and hearty texture. The balance of warm spices, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a filling that’s both comforting and aromatic. And when you drizzle it with the spicy garlic tahini sauce, every bite becomes a delightful explosion of flavors.
Let’s dive into this flavorful feast and explore how you can make it at home!
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Eggplant Recipe
✔ Bold & Flavorful – A perfect balance of warm spices, tender eggplant, and creamy sauce
✔ High in Protein – Packed with lean ground meat and Greek yogurt for a protein boost
✔ Healthy & Satisfying – A nutritious dish that leaves you full and energized
✔ Customizable – Use your favorite protein or make it vegetarian
✔ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Impress your family with a gourmet meal
Ingredients for Stuffed Eggplant with Spicy Garlic Tahini Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this savory and satisfying dish:
For the Stuffed Eggplant:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds warmth and color |
| Ground coriander | 1 teaspoon | Earthy and slightly citrusy |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Essential Middle Eastern spice |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon | Adds depth and warmth |
| Eggplants | 2 large, halved | Scoop out the center, leaving 1″ border |
| Olive oil | 4 tablespoons | Divided for roasting and cooking |
| Salt | To taste | Enhances all flavors |
| Black pepper | To taste | Adds mild heat |
| Small onion | 1, finely diced | Builds a flavor foundation |
| Ground beef (or turkey, chicken, lamb, sausage) | ½ pound | Lean meat recommended |
| Garlic cloves | 4, pressed | Infuses rich aroma |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | Pinch | Adds extra heat |
| Cooked basmati rice | 1 ½ cups | Provides a fluffy texture |
| Cherry tomatoes | ½ cup, chopped | Adds a slight sweetness |
| Flat-leaf parsley | 1 tablespoon, chopped | Brightens up the dish |
| Fresh mint leaves | 1 teaspoon, chopped | Adds a fresh herbal note |
| Pistachios (optional) | 1 tablespoon, chopped | Adds crunch and nuttiness |
For the Spicy Garlic Tahini Sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Greek yogurt | ½ cup | Low-fat, plain for creaminess |
| Tahini paste | 2 tablespoons | Adds nutty richness |
| Garlic cloves | 6 | Bold, spicy garlic flavor |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Adds brightness and acidity |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon (or to taste) | Gives a spicy kick |
| Water | 3 tablespoons | Adjust for desired consistency |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Stuffed Eggplant
1. Prepare the Eggplants
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the halved and scooped eggplants with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper.
- Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, until they start to soften.
2. Cook the Filling
- Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add the garlic, paprika, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine the Filling
- Mix in the cooked basmati rice, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and mint. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- If using, add chopped pistachios for extra crunch.
4. Stuff the Eggplants
- Remove the eggplants from the oven and fill each half with the meat and rice mixture, pressing it in gently.
- Return to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the eggplants are fully tender.
5. Make the Spicy Garlic Tahini Sauce
- In a blender or food processor, combine the Greek yogurt, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, salt, cayenne pepper, and water.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve & Garnish
- Remove the eggplants from the oven and drizzle generously with the spicy garlic tahini sauce.
- Garnish with extra mint leaves and serve hot.
Enjoy your flavorful stuffed eggplant with a side of warm pita bread or a fresh salad!
Tips for the Best Stuffed Eggplant
✅ Choose Firm Eggplants – Look for deep purple, glossy eggplants for the best texture.
✅ Roast the Eggplants First – Softens them and enhances the flavor.
✅ Use High-Quality Tahini – A good tahini paste makes a big difference in flavor.
✅ Make It Vegetarian – Swap the meat for chickpeas or lentils.
✅ Add a Crunchy Topping – Try toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds for extra texture.
Variations of Stuffed Eggplant
1. Mediterranean Vegetarian Stuffed Eggplant
- Replace ground meat with chickpeas or quinoa for a plant-based version.
- Add crumbled feta cheese for a tangy kick.
2. Spicy Moroccan Stuffed Eggplant
- Increase the cinnamon and cayenne pepper for a North African twist.
- Serve with a side of harissa yogurt sauce.
3. Cheese-Lover’s Stuffed Eggplant
- Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella or feta before baking for a cheesy crust.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbs | 40g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 7g |
Values may vary based on ingredients and portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can use turkey, chicken, lamb, or even sausage for different flavors.
2. How do I store and reheat stuffed eggplant?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the filling in advance and assemble just before baking.
4. What can I serve with stuffed eggplant?
Pair it with hummus, pita bread, tabbouleh, or a cucumber yogurt salad.
5. Is tahini sauce spicy?
The cayenne adds mild heat, but you can adjust it to your taste.
6. Can I freeze stuffed eggplant?
Yes, but freeze without the sauce. Reheat and drizzle the sauce fresh before serving.
Final Thoughts: A Dish Bursting with Flavor
This Stuffed Eggplant with Spicy Garlic Tahini Sauce is a bold, hearty, and unforgettable dish. Whether you’re a fan of Middle Eastern flavors or simply looking for a new recipe to try, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Try it today and experience the perfect balance of spices, creamy tahini, and tender roasted eggplant!