15+ Eggplant Middle East Recipe Dive Into Deliciousness!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
Eggplant is a versatile and delicious vegetable that has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. From dips and spreads to stews and kebabs, there are endless ways to use this flavorful ingredient in traditional Middle Eastern dishes. In this article, we will explore the history of eggplant in Middle Eastern cuisine, as well as a classic eggplant recipe that is sure to impress your taste buds.
California Pizza Kitchen’s Chicken Caesar Salad Pizza...
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast Boneless, Caesar Dressing, Middle East
Looking for a unique twist on traditional pizza? Look no further than California Pizza Kitchen's Chicken Caesar Salad Pizza. This mouth-watering creation combines the classic flavors of a Caesar salad with the cheesy goodness of a pizza. With a crispy thin crust and a generous layer of tangy Caesar dressing, this pizza is sure to please your taste buds. Plus, the addition of chicken adds a protein boost, making it a well-rounded meal. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family at your next pizza night.
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Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Red Pepper, Zucchini, Onion, Balsamic
Looking for a vegetarian option that is still packed with flavor? Try this Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Sandwich. It features a delicious combination of roasted eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, all marinated in a tangy balsamic dressing. Layered on top of a crusty baguette with a creamy spread of goat cheese, this sandwich is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Add a touch of fresh basil for a pop of herbal freshness and you have a winning sandwich that will satisfy even the most carnivorous eaters.
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Vegan BLTA
Main Ingredients: Maple Syrup, Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Low Sodium
Who says a BLT has to have bacon? This Vegan BLTA swaps out the traditional bacon for crispy, smokey tempeh strips. Layered on top of ripe avocado, juicy tomato, and fresh lettuce, this sandwich is a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory. Add a smear of your favorite vegan mayo and this sandwich is ready to be devoured. Plus, using tempeh instead of bacon makes this sandwich a healthier option without sacrificing any of the flavor.
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Roasted Vegetable Salad
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Butternut Squash, Medium Zucchini, Seeds
If you're in the mood for a light and refreshing meal, try this Roasted Vegetable Salad. It features a colorful mix of roasted eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed with a simple balsamic vinaigrette. The vegetables are perfectly caramelized and the vinaigrette adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the salad. Top with some crumbled feta cheese for a touch of creaminess, and you have a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Low Carb Eggplant Bites
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Vegan Mayonnaise, Unsweetened Almond Milk
Trying to cut back on carbs but still craving something crispy and delicious? These Low Carb Eggplant Bites are the perfect solution. Thin slices of eggplant are coated in a mixture of parmesan cheese, almond flour, and seasonings, then baked to crispy perfection. These bites are a great alternative to traditional fried appetizers and are a great way to get your vegetable fix. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping and you have a tasty and guilt-free snack.
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Green Monster Veggie Burger
Main Ingredients: Frozen Peas, Kale, Florets, Broccoli, Celery Stalk
Burgers don't have to be made solely from meat. This Green Monster Veggie Burger is a delicious and healthy alternative. Made with a mix of chickpeas, spinach, and spices, these burgers are packed with protein and nutrients. Top with your favorite burger fixings and enjoy a guilt-free and tasty meal. Plus, the vibrant green color of these burgers will make them stand out at your next BBQ.
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Roasted Eggplant Sandwiches with Vegan Arugula Walnut...
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Arugula, Basil
Looking for a new way to enjoy roasted eggplant? Try these Roasted Eggplant Sandwiches with Vegan Arugula Walnut Pesto. The eggplant is roasted to a tender and flavorful perfection, then layered on a crusty baguette with a rich and nutty pesto made from arugula and walnuts. The combination of flavors and textures in this sandwich is a real winner. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra greens into your diet.
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Spinach and Eggplant Salad
Main Ingredients: Fresh Spinach Leaves, Cherry Tomatoes, Red Onion
This Spinach and Eggplant Salad is a great way to enjoy the flavors of a classic Eggplant Parmesan dish in a lighter and healthier form. The eggplant is lightly fried and tossed with spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic dressing. It's a great option for a light lunch or a side dish at your next dinner party. Plus, the addition of spinach adds an extra boost of nutrients to this already delicious salad.
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Vegan Shuba (Eggplant under the sea)
Main Ingredients: Beetroot, Medium Carrots, Medium Potatoes, Purple
If you're a fan of traditional Russian dishes, you'll love this vegan twist on Shuba. Instead of using fish, this recipe uses thinly sliced eggplant, layered with a creamy and tangy vegan mayonnaise dressing. Topped with fresh herbs and vegetables, this dish is a great option for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
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South Carolina Vegan Catfish and Coleslaw
Main Ingredients: Green Cabbage, Red Cabbage, Large Carrot, White Onion
Craving some Southern comfort food? Try this South Carolina Vegan Catfish and Coleslaw recipe. Instead of using catfish, this recipe uses tofu, coated in a flavorful breading and fried to a crispy perfection. Served with a tangy and creamy coleslaw, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for fried fish without the guilt. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet.
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PLANTAIN LASAGNE WITH RAINBOW SLAW
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Spring Onions, Garlic, Ginger, Scotch Bonnet
If you're tired of traditional lasagna, give this Plantain Lasagne with Rainbow Slaw a try. The layers of thinly sliced plantains add a sweet and unique flavor to this dish, while the colorful and crunchy slaw adds a nice contrast in texture. Plus, this recipe is gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by omitting the cheese. It's a fun and tasty twist on a classic dish that is sure to impress your friends and family.
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Summer Vegetable Hash with Brown Rice + Poached Egg
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Green Beans
This Summer Vegetable Hash with Brown Rice and Poached Egg is a great way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer. It's packed with a variety of vegetables, including eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, all cooked until tender and flavorful. Served on top of a bed of brown rice and topped with a perfectly poached egg, this dish is a satisfying and healthy option for any meal of the day.
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Scrumptious Roasted Vegetables
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Large Carrot, Red Onions, Red Bell Pepper
Roasting vegetables is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy them. This recipe for Scrumptious Roasted Vegetables features a mix of eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices. Roasted until tender and caramelized, these vegetables are the perfect side dish for any meal. Plus, they are versatile and can be served as a side or added to salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
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Baked Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Large Egg, Seasoned Breadcrumbs, Olive Oil
This Baked Eggplant recipe is a simple and tasty way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Slices of eggplant are coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, then baked until crispy and golden brown. Serve as a side dish or use as a topping for sandwiches, wraps, or salads. It's a delicious and easy way to add more vegetables to your diet.
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Eggplant Parmesan
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Kosher Salt, Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs
If you're a fan of traditional Italian dishes, you'll love this Eggplant Parmesan recipe. Slices of eggplant are breaded and fried until crispy, then layered with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, this dish is a hearty and satisfying option for any meal. Serve with a side of pasta for a complete and delicious meal.
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Baked Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Eggplants, Roma Tomatoes
This Baked Ratatouille recipe is a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one dish. Eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes are all layered on top of each other, then baked until tender and flavorful. This dish is perfect for using up any leftover vegetables in your fridge and is a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet.
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Turkey Breast Fingers With Avocado Dip
Main Ingredients: Weetabix, Parmesan, Dried Thyme, Oregano, Smoked
Looking for a healthier alternative to traditional chicken fingers? Try these Turkey Breast Fingers with Avocado Dip. Thinly sliced turkey breast is coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture and baked until golden brown. Served with a creamy and flavorful avocado dip, these "fingers" are a great option for a healthier version of a classic comfort food. Plus, using turkey breast instead of chicken makes this dish lower in fat and higher in protein.
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Harissa Lamb Cutlets With Pomegranate Couscous
Main Ingredients: Greek Yogurt, Harissa Harissa, Lamb Cutlet, Couscous
If you're in the mood for something exotic and flavorful, try these Harissa Lamb Cutlets with Pomegranate Couscous. The lamb is marinated in a spicy and tangy harissa paste, then grilled to perfection. Served on top of a bed of fluffy couscous mixed with pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs, this dish is a delicious and unique way to enjoy lamb. Plus, the vibrant colors and flavors of this dish will impress anyone at your next dinner party.
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Tuscan Pork Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Pork Chops, Olive Oil, Dijon Style Mustard, Lemon
This Tuscan Pork Sandwich is a great option for a quick and tasty lunch or dinner. Thinly sliced pork is marinated in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, then grilled and served on a crusty baguette with fresh arugula and a tangy balsamic glaze. It's a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors and is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty sandwich.
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Baked Vegan Eggplant & Zucchini Chips
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Zucchini, Salt, Vegan Mayonnaise, Panko Bread
Looking for a healthier alternative to potato chips? These Baked Vegan Eggplant & Zucchini Chips are the perfect solution. Thin slices of eggplant and zucchini are coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs and spices, then baked until crispy and golden brown. Serve with your favorite dip for a tasty and guilt-free snack. Plus, these chips are a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet.
The History of Eggplant in Middle Eastern Cuisine
The eggplant, also known as aubergine, was first cultivated in India and brought to the Middle East by traders and travelers. It quickly became a popular ingredient in many Middle Eastern dishes, and its popularity soon spread to other regions such as Europe and Africa. In fact, eggplant is believed to have been introduced to Europe by the Moors during their conquests in the 8th century.
The Versatility of Eggplant
One of the reasons why eggplant has been a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries is its versatility. This vegetable can be cooked in a variety of ways, making it suitable for a wide range of dishes. It can be grilled, roasted, fried, or even smoked, giving it a unique and rich flavor. Additionally, eggplant is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
Eggplant in Middle Eastern Cuisine
In Middle Eastern cuisine, eggplant is used in a variety of dishes, from appetizers to main courses. One of the most popular dishes is Baba Ghanoush, a dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Another popular dish is Moutabal, a smoky eggplant dip that is similar to Baba Ghanoush but also includes yogurt and spices. Eggplant is also commonly used in stews, such as the classic Lebanese dish, Maghmour, which features eggplant, chickpeas, and tomatoes.
The Recipe: Eggplant Kebabs
Now that you know a bit about the history and versatility of eggplant in Middle Eastern cuisine, let's dive into a delicious recipe that will surely satisfy your taste buds. These eggplant kebabs are a vegetarian twist on the traditional meat kebabs and are perfect for a summer BBQ or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
2 medium-sized eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Thread the eggplant, bell pepper, and onion onto the skewers, alternating between the vegetables.
Brush the skewers with the olive oil mixture on all sides.
Grill the skewers on medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Serve the eggplant kebabs with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish to a Middle Eastern inspired meal.
Eggplant is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, and this recipe is just one example of the many delicious ways it can be incorporated into dishes. Whether you're a vegetarian looking for a new recipe to try or just a fan of eggplant, these kebabs are sure to become a favorite in your household. So fire up the grill and enjoy this flavorful and nutritious dish!
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