Introduction
This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of ground meat, eggplant, and spices with the comforting texture of basmati rice and chickpeas. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal with friends. The optional ingredients like red wine and Greek yogurt add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess, making this recipe a must-try.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 500g (1 lb) ground beef or lamb
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (for the beef)
– 1 1/2 tablespoons dried oregano
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 300g (10 oz) eggplant, cut into 1.5 cm (3/5 inch) cubes
– 1/3 cup dry red wine (optional)
– 1 cup basmati rice, uncooked
– 400g (14 oz) can chickpeas, drained
– 400g (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
– 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt (for the broth)
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped (optional)
– Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
– Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish, infused with the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether served at a family gathering or for a quiet night in, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for 2 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Meat
Add ground beef or lamb; cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer red.
Step 3: Season the Meat
Stir in 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and dried oregano; cook for 1 minute.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste
Add tomato paste to the pot; cook for another minute to enhance its flavor.
Step 5: Add the Eggplant
Add eggplant cubes to the mixture; stir to ensure they are coated in the beef mixture.
Step 6: Pour in the Red Wine
If using, pour in the dry red wine; let it simmer until mostly evaporated.
Step 7: Combine the Rice
Stir in the uncooked basmati rice until well combined with the other ingredients.
Step 8: Add Remaining Ingredients
Add the drained chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, and black pepper; stir thoroughly.
Step 9: Simmer the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a simmer; once bubbles appear across the surface, cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low.
Step 10: Cook Undisturbed
Cook for 20 minutes without lifting the lid to ensure even cooking.
Step 11: Rest Before Serving
Remove from heat and let the pot rest for 10 minutes with the lid on.
Step 12: Finish with Parsley
Stir in the finely chopped parsley just before serving.
Step 13: Serve
Serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a dollop of Greek yogurt, if desired.
Notes
Optional Ingredients
Consider using red wine for added depth of flavor. If you prefer not to use wine, you can skip this step without compromising the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking ingredients quickly in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot and adding diced onions and minced garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Ground meat cooking
When cooking ground beef or lamb, break it apart with a spoon or spatula and cook until it is no longer red. This helps to ensure even cooking and browning.
Flavor enhancement
Adding dried herbs, like oregano, and tomato paste while cooking not only adds flavor but also deepens the overall taste of the dish. Cook these for a minute to fully release their flavors.
Incorporating vegetables
Cutting eggplant into small cubes allows it to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the dish. Stir it into the beef mixture until it is coated.
Deglazing
If using red wine, adding it after sautéing the vegetables helps to lift the flavorful bits off the pot’s bottom. Let it simmer until mostly evaporated, intensifying the dish’s flavor.
Cooking rice
When adding uncooked basmati rice to the pot, stir to combine it with the other ingredients. This ensures that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors.
Simmering
Bringing the mixture to a simmer before covering allows the ingredients to start cooking through. Maintain a medium-low heat and keep the lid on to trap steam for even cooking.
Resting
Once the dish is removed from heat, letting it rest for 10 minutes with the lid on allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish cooking in the residual steam.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef or lamb with chicken, turkey, or plant-based alternatives if desired.
Is the red wine necessary?
No, red wine is optional. It adds depth of flavor, but you can skip it or use broth instead.
What if I don’t have basmati rice?
You can substitute basmati rice with other rice varieties, but cooking times may vary.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used; just ensure they are peeled and chopped to match the equivalent can size.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the meat and add additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, and still use the other ingredients as listed.
Conclusion
This hearty dish brings together the rich flavors of ground meat, eggplant, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection with rice and chickpeas. The addition of Greek yogurt adds a creamy touch that complements the robustness of the ingredients, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Variation
Replace the ground beef or lamb with a mix of finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
Spice it Up
Add a teaspoon of cumin and a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick of flavor that enhances the Mediterranean profile.
Herbed Rice
Mix in fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint into the basmati rice before serving for a refreshing twist.
Lentil Substitute
Swap ground meat for cooked lentils to create a nutritious, plant-based dish packed with fiber.
Nutty Addition
Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top before serving for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
Greek Twist
Incorporate kalamata olives and feta cheese to give this dish a classic Greek flair, enhancing the Mediterranean flavors.
One-Pot Varieties
Try incorporating other grains like quinoa or farro instead of basmati rice for a different texture and nutritional profile.
