Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh with a spoon, leaving about 1/2-inch border around the skin (you can save the flesh for the filling or another recipe).
3. Lightly score the flesh of the eggplant halves in a crisscross pattern, which will help the eggplant cook evenly and allow the flavors of the filling to absorb better.
4. Brush the cut sides of the eggplant with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Place the eggplant halves on a baking sheet, cut side down, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. If you want a slightly crispy exterior, you can broil the eggplant for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Savory Meat Filling

1. While the eggplant is baking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once the meat is cooked, add the crushed tomatoes, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and allspice (if using). Stir to combine, and simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. If the mixture is too liquidy, let it cook a bit longer until it thickens to a consistency you like. If it’s too thick, you can add a little bit of water to loosen it up.
6. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Remove from heat, and stir in the breadcrumbs for added texture. If you like your filling extra cheesy, you can add in some shredded mozzarella cheese here as well. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Stuff the Eggplants

1. Once the eggplant halves are roasted and tender, flip them over to expose the flesh.
2. Using a spoon, scoop the meat filling into the eggplant halves, pressing down gently to make sure it’s packed in well.
3. If you like, sprinkle the tops of the stuffed eggplants with additional mozzarella cheese or parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish.

Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Eggplants

1. Return the stuffed eggplants to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the cheese (if used) is melted and golden.
2. If you prefer a more golden top, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese becomes golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Once out of the oven, garnish the baked eggplants with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
2. Serve hot with a side of yogurt or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Make it Vegetarian: You can substitute the meat with a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, and spices for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for added flavor in the filling.
• Extra Texture: If you prefer more texture in your filling, you can add chopped spinach, zucchini, or even olives.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Sauce Options: A dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce complements the savory meat filling and adds a cool contrast to the warm dish.

Conclusion

Baked Eggplant with Savory Meat Filling is an incredibly flavorful dish that combines tender roasted eggplant with a savory and seasoned meat filling. It’s simple to prepare, hearty enough for a meal on its own, and versatile enough to fit a variety of tastes. Whether you’re a fan of lamb, beef, or vegetarian options, this dish is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy every bite!