Eggplant Kofta Bake

Eggplant Kofta Bake is a savory and aromatic dish combining tender eggplant layers with spiced meatballs, all enveloped in a rich, tomato-based sauce. This comforting Middle-Eastern-inspired bake is perfect for a hearty family dinner or a delightful gathering.

Ingredients

🟣 2 large eggplants
🥩 2 pounds ground beef
🧅 1 medium-sized onion, finely diced
🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
🌿 1/2 cup mix of parsley and cilantro, chopped
🧂 1/2 tablespoon salt
🌶️ 1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika
🌿 1 teaspoon cumin
🌿 1 teaspoon coriander
⚫ 1 teaspoon black pepper
🌶️ 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
💧 1 1/2 cups hot water
🍅 3 tablespoons tomato paste
🥫 1/2 tablespoon chicken bouillon mix

Instructions

1- Prep the Eggplants:

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
Slice the eggplants into ¼-inch rounds and if desired, lightly salt them to draw out moisture.
Rinse and pat them dry after a few minutes.

2- Prepare the Kofta Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley and cilantro, salt, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

3- Assemble the Bake:

In a baking dish, arrange a layer of eggplant slices.
Form small meatballs from the kofta mixture and place them over the eggplant layer.
Alternate between layers of eggplant and kofta until all ingredients are used, ending with an eggplant layer.

4- Prepare the Sauce:

In a bowl, mix hot water with tomato paste and the chicken bouillon.
Stir until smooth and well combined.

5- Bake the Dish:

Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the eggplant and kofta layers.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

6- Finish Baking:

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to brown slightly and the flavors to meld perfectly.

7- Serve:

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8
Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Nutritional Information per Serving: Proteins 28g, Fats 28g, Carbohydrates 14g
Equipment: Oven, baking dish, mixing bowl, foil