Eggplant, a staple ingredient in many Middle Eastern cuisines, is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from hearty stews and soups to flavorful dips and salads. With its meaty texture and slightly bitter taste, it’s the perfect canvas for a range of flavors and spices. From smoky baba ganoush to fragrant eggplant kibbeh, we’ve rounded up 19 of the most exquisite Middle Eastern eggplant recipes that showcase the best of the region’s culinary traditions.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Middle East, highlighting some of the most delicious and iconic eggplant dishes from countries like Turkey, Lebanon, Syria, Morocco, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration for your next meal, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Smoky Baba Ganoush with Tahini and Pomegranate
A twist on the classic Middle Eastern dip, this smoky version adds depth and complexity to the rich flavors of roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and pomegranate.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the eggplants for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and tender.
4. Allow the eggplants to cool, then peel off the skin and mash in a bowl.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together tahini, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the mashed eggplant to the tahini mixture and stir until combined.
7. Stir in pomegranate seeds for added flavor and color.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Middle Eastern Stuffed Eggplant with Spiced Lamb
A flavorful twist on the classic stuffed eggplant dish, this recipe combines tender lamb with aromatic spices and creamy yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook lamb over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each eggplant shell with the lamb mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplants and top with yogurt.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until eggplants are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Eggplant and Chickpea Stew with Turmeric and Cumin
Eggplant and Chickpea Stew with Turmeric and Cumin – A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian stew that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add eggplant and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Roasted Eggplant and Tomato Salad with Pomegranate Molasses
Roasted Eggplant and Tomato Salad with Pomegranate Molasses
A sweet and savory salad that combines the smoky flavor of roasted eggplant with the tanginess of pomegranate molasses.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 4 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted eggplant, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and remaining 2 tbsp olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle pomegranate molasses over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Persian Eggplant and Walnut Dip
Persian Eggplant and Walnut Dip Recipe
A classic Persian dip that combines the flavors of roasted eggplant, walnuts, garlic, and herbs to create a rich and creamy treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the eggplants: Pierce each eggplant several times with a fork, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the skin is charred and collapsed.
3. Let the eggplants cool, then peel off the skin and mash the flesh in a bowl.
4. In a separate pan, toast the walnut halves over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Combine the roasted eggplant, toasted walnuts, garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
6. Serve warm with pita bread, vegetables, or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Lebanese Eggplant Fattet with Yogurt and Pine Nuts
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional eggplant dishes, this Lebanese-inspired recipe combines roasted eggplant with creamy yogurt, crunchy pine nuts, and aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast eggplant for 30-40 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, parsley, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Once eggplant is cooked, let it cool slightly then slice into 1-inch pieces.
6. Combine roasted eggplant with yogurt mixture and garnish with toasted pine nuts and minced garlic (if using).
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Spiced Eggplant with Tomatoes and Garlic (Makdous)
A flavorful and aromatic North African dish, Makdous is a perfect combination of roasted eggplant, sweet tomatoes, and pungent garlic. This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic eggplant preparation.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized eggplants
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the eggplant halves.
4. Roast the eggplants in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While the eggplants are roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
6. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until they release their juices and thicken slightly.
7. Serve the roasted eggplant with the tomato-garlic mixture spooned on top, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Grilled Eggplant with Mint and Sumac Dressing
A flavorful summer delight, this recipe combines the smoky sweetness of grilled eggplant with a refreshing mint and sumac dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground sumac
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
4. In a small bowl, combine chopped mint, lemon juice, and ground sumac.
5. To assemble the dish, place grilled eggplant on a platter and drizzle with the mint-sumac dressing.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (grilling time: 6-8 minutes)
Middle Eastern Eggplant and Lentil Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and comforting soup, infused with the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. This hearty recipe combines tender eggplant and lentils with a medley of spices, making it perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, chopped
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the eggplant, lentils, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fried Eggplant with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
A simple yet flavorful twist on traditional eggplant dishes, this recipe combines crispy fried eggplant slices with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt and garlic.
6. Serve the fried eggplant with a dollop of garlic yogurt sauce on top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, including prep and cooking time.
Eggplant Kibbeh Stuffed with Spiced Beef
Experience the flavors of the Middle East with this unique eggplant dish, filled with tender spiced beef and crunchy kibbeh.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup kibbeh mixture (available at Middle Eastern markets or online)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each eggplant slice with a spoonful of the spiced beef mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Coat each stuffed eggplant slice with kibbeh mixture, pressing it gently onto the filling to adhere.
7. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplants until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant and Feta Cheese Rolls with Za’atar
A flavorful twist on classic eggplant rolls, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of eggplant with the tanginess of feta cheese and the warm, earthy notes of za’atar.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 block of feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon za’atar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, and za’atar.
4. Place an eggplant round on a flat surface and spoon a small amount of the feta mixture onto the center of the eggplant.
5. Roll up the eggplant tightly, starting from one end. Repeat with remaining eggplants and filling.
6. Place rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until eggplant is tender and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Eggplant and Bell Pepper Tagine
Experience the rich flavors of Morocco with this aromatic eggplant and bell pepper tagine, slow-cooked to perfection in a clay pot.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a clay or ceramic tagine over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the eggplant and bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkish Eggplant and Ground Meat Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Turkey with tender eggplant, savory ground meat, and aromatic spices. A perfect blend of Eastern and Western cuisines.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound ground beef or lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate dish, combine cooked rice and diced tomatoes.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
7. Alternate layers of eggplant slices, ground meat mixture, and rice-tomato mixture.
8. Cover and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until eggplant is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 5 minutes
Roasted Eggplant and Chickpea Hummus
Roasted Eggplant and Chickpea Hummus Recipe
Summary: Elevate your snack game with this creamy, savory, and healthy dip recipe featuring roasted eggplant and chickpeas. Perfect for veggie lovers and those looking for a tasty vegan option.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the eggplants with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and the flesh is tender.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted eggplant, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Blend until smooth.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dippers, such as pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Eggplant and Pomegranate Salad with Herbs
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of roasted eggplant with the sweetness of pomegranate, all tied together with a sprinkle of fragrant herbs. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the eggplant for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted eggplant, pomegranate seeds, parsley, mint, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss to combine, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Persian Eggplant and Saffron Rice
Persian Eggplant and Saffron Rice: A flavorful fusion of Persian spices and saffron-infused rice, perfectly paired with tender eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 cups uncooked white basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using saffron-infused water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add eggplant slices and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
4. Stir in cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Serve with saffron rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lebanese Eggplant Moussaka with Tahini Sauce
This classic Lebanese dish combines tender eggplant slices with a rich and creamy tahini sauce, all wrapped up in a flavorful package. A perfect blend of sweet and savory, this moussaka is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup tahini sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Tahini Sauce:
– 1/2 cup tahini paste
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill or broil the eggplant until tender and lightly charred.
5. In a separate pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
6. Assemble the moussaka by layering grilled eggplant, sautéed onion mixture, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Drizzle tahini sauce over the top and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Syrian Eggplant and Tomato Stew with Pomegranate Seeds
This hearty stew is a staple of Syrian cuisine, featuring tender eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and the sweet-tart flavor of pomegranate seeds. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 3 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced eggplant and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in pomegranate seeds and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with these 19 exquisite eggplant recipes. From smoky baba ganoush to spiced lamb-stuffed eggplants, and from hearty lentil soups to crispy fried delights, this collection has something for everyone. Explore the region’s diverse culinary traditions, including Persian, Lebanese, Turkish, and Moroccan flavors. With a focus on bold spices, aromatic herbs, and tangy pomegranate molasses, these recipes are sure to transport your taste buds to the bustling souks of the Middle East.
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