Bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table with this mouthwatering gratin stuffed eggplant recipe. Perfect for vegetarians and anyone who loves a hearty, veggie-packed meal, these eggplants are filled with a vibrant mixture of fresh vegetables, seasoned to perfection, and topped with melty cheese. This dish is not only satisfying but also full of rich, savory flavors that will delight everyone at the table. Let’s get started on creating this delicious and nutritious meal!
Ingredients:
- 2 eggplants
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 3 tomatoes, diced
- 170g mushrooms, sliced
- Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt, pepper, cumin, paprika (to taste)
- 150g grated cheese (your choice of cheese)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggplants: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). Carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin border around the edges to create “boats.” Chop the scooped-out eggplant flesh into small pieces and set it aside. Place the hollowed-out eggplant halves on a baking sheet, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Roast the eggplants in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until they are slightly softened.
2. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook it until it becomes clear and soft. Next, add the minced garlic, green pepper, and red pepper. Add the diced tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, and the chopped eggplant flesh to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika to taste. Stir everything together and let the mixture cook for another 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
3. Stuff the Eggplants: Once the filling is ready, remove the skillet from the heat. Take the roasted eggplant halves and spoon the vegetable mixture into each one, filling them generously.
4. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the stuffed eggplants. Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese—mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses all work well for this recipe.
5. Bake the Stuffed Eggplants: Place the stuffed eggplants back into the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is bubbly and golden, remove the eggplants from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander for a burst of freshness. Serve the gratin stuffed eggplants hot, straight from the oven. They pair beautifully with a side salad or a serving of crusty bread.
Conclusion
This gratin stuffed eggplant recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful vegetarian meal. The combination of roasted eggplants, savory vegetables, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your meal!