Introduction
Eggplant, when prepared with aromatic spices and savory toppings, can be transformed into a delicious and healthy dish. This recipe features roasted eggplant topped with a spiced beef mixture, accented by a zesty chermoula spice mix. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a nutritious meal suitable for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Eggplant:
– 2 medium eggplants (approximately 250g/8oz each)
– 3/4 teaspoon cooking salt or kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Chermoula Spice Mix:
– 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander
– 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 3/4 teaspoon allspice powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Spiced Beef Topping:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/2 onion, finely chopped
– 250g / 8oz lean ground beef (or lamb)
– 1/2 teaspoon cooking/kosher salt
– 2 teaspoons tomato paste
– 1/4 cup water
To Serve:
– Plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons coriander/cilantro leaves, roughly chopped (substitute parsley if desired)
– 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 2 as a main or 4 as a side
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan).
2. Prepare the Eggplant
– Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise.
– Score the flesh in a diamond pattern without cutting through the skin.
– Sprinkle salt on the surface and rub it in.
– Place the eggplant halves face down in a colander for 30 minutes to sweat and remove excess moisture.
– Gently squeeze to remove water, and pat dry.
3. Chermoula Spice Mix
– Combine all spice mix ingredients in a bowl.
– Set aside 3 teaspoons of the mix for the meat filling.
– Add olive oil and lemon juice to the remaining spice mix to form a paste.
4. Roast the Eggplant
– Place the eggplant halves on a baking tray and slather the Chermoula paste on the cut side.
– Roast for 45 minutes or until softened.
5. Prepare the Spiced Beef
– Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
– Add onion and garlic; sauté for 1 minute.
– Increase heat to high, add ground beef, and cook until browned.
– Stir in the reserved Chermoula spices and salt; cook for an additional minute.
– Mix in the tomato paste and water, and cook until the meat mixture is juicy but not watery.
6. Assemble
– Top the roasted eggplant halves with the spiced beef.
– Garnish with dollops of yogurt, coriander, and toasted pine nuts.
Notes
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
45 minutes
Total Time
60 minutes
Calories
450 kcal
Servings
2 as a main or 4 as a side
Cook techniques
Prepping Eggplant
To remove bitterness and excess moisture from eggplants, cut them in half lengthwise, score the flesh, sprinkle with salt, and let them sweat in a colander for 30 minutes. This technique enhances the flavor and texture.
Making Chermoula Paste
Chermoula is a North African spice mix that adds deep flavor. Combine spices in a bowl and mix with olive oil and lemon juice to create a paste that can be used as a marinade or topping.
Roasting Eggplant
Roasting eggplant at a consistent temperature allows it to develop a rich flavor and soft texture. Apply the Chermoula paste to the cut sides before roasting for maximum flavor infusion.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sautéing onion and garlic in olive oil adds base flavor to the dish. Begin with medium-high heat for a fragrant aroma, which becomes the foundation for your spiced beef.
Cooking Ground Meat
Searing ground beef over high heat initially helps it brown and develop a more robust flavor. Adding the reserved spices and tomato paste creates a juicy and flavorful filling.
Assembling the Dish
Layering the spiced beef on top of roasted eggplant creates a visually appealing and flavorful dish. Garnish with yogurt, fresh herbs, and toasted pine nuts to enhance taste and presentation.
FAQ
Can I substitute eggplant with another vegetable?
Yes, zucchini or bell peppers could be used as alternatives, but cooking times may vary.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground lamb or turkey can be excellent substitutes for ground beef in this recipe.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the spiced beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables, lentils, or chickpeas.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can roast the eggplant and prepare the spiced beef mixture ahead of time. Assemble and bake just before serving for best results.
What should I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This roasted eggplant topped with spiced beef and garnished with yogurt, coriander, and pine nuts offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The fragrant Chermoula spice mix enhances the dish, making it a satisfying option for any meal. Enjoy it as a main dish or as a flavorful side, and savor the warm spices that bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Eggplant and Chickpea Curry
Switch up the protein by using chickpeas instead of beef. Add coconut milk and spinach for a creamy, hearty curry.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the spiced beef mixture to stuff bell peppers. Top with cheese and bake until golden for a tasty twist.
Eggplant Parmesan
Layer roasted eggplant slices with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then bake for a comforting, cheesy dish.
Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad
Mix roasted eggplant with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and arugula, then dress with lemon juice and olive oil for a refreshing salad.
Spiced Lamb Chops
Rub lamb chops with the Chermoula spice mix and grill or roast for an aromatic main course.
Vegetable Tagine
Add a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, and sweet potatoes to the Chermoula spices, and slow-cook for a hearty Moroccan-inspired tagine.
