Introduction

Stuffed eggplants are a delightful dish that combines the earthiness of eggplants with hearty veal, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a burst of flavors that make it perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner with friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps required to make this delectable dish.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 2 large eggplants
– 400g ground veal
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 400g canned diced tomatoes
– 150g mozzarella cheese, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish

Prep Time

Preparation time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes. This includes washing and slicing the eggplants, chopping the onions and garlic, and preparing the veal mixture.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time is around 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time to prepare this stuffed eggplant dish is about 50 minutes. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it an ideal option for a small gathering or a family dinner. Enjoy this delicious meal that is sure to impress your guests!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplants

Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a border around the edges. Sprinkle the insides with salt and let them rest for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a pan, heat some olive oil and add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until translucent. Add diced eggplant flesh and cook until softened. Incorporate ground veal and cook through. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice. Stir in tomato sauce and let simmer for a few minutes.

Step 3: Stuff the Eggplants

Rinse the salted eggplants under cold water to remove excess salt and pat them dry. Fill each eggplant half with the veal mixture.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Top each stuffed eggplant with slices of mozzarella cheese, ensuring even coverage.

Step 5: Bake the Eggplants

Place the stuffed eggplants in a baking dish, add a splash of water to the bottom, and cover with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed eggplants can be served alone or with a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Leftover stuffed eggplants can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to the filling for additional flavor, or substitute the veal with other types of meat or plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option.

Cook techniques

Roasting

Roasting is a technique that involves cooking food evenly in an oven at high heat. For stuffed eggplants, this method enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a tender texture.

Stuffing

Stuffing involves filling a food item with a mixture of ingredients. In this recipe, the eggplants are filled with a savory blend of ground veal, tomatoes, and mozzarella, creating a hearty and flavorful dish.

Sautéing

Sautéing is a quick cooking method that uses a small amount of fat over relatively high heat. It’s used to prepare the filling by cooking the veal and vegetables until they are tender.

Baking

Baking is a dry heat cooking method in an oven, often used for dishes like stuffed eggplants. It allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the stuffing is cooked thoroughly.

Garnishing

Garnishing refers to adding decorative elements to enhance a dish’s appearance. Fresh herbs can be used as a garnish to elevate the visual appeal of stuffed eggplants before serving.

FAQ

Can I use a different meat for the stuffing?

Yes, you can substitute ground veal with other meats such as beef, turkey, or chicken, depending on your preference.

How do I know when the eggplants are done?

The eggplants are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, and the filling is hot and cooked through.

Can I prepare the stuffed eggplants ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed eggplants ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.

What can I serve with stuffed eggplants?

Stuffed eggplants pair well with a fresh salad, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Can I freeze the stuffed eggplants?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed eggplants before baking. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and bake them straight from the freezer when ready.

Conclusion

The stuffed eggplants with veal, tomato, and mozzarella offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish is not only satisfying but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The fusion of savory veal and creamy mozzarella layered within tender eggplants creates a delicious and wholesome meal that is sure to impress.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Explore a variation by using colorful bell peppers instead of eggplants. Fill them with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices for a hearty meal.

Zucchini Boats with Ground Turkey

Use zucchini as a base for another stuffed dish. Ground turkey, black beans, and cheese make a light yet filling alternative.

Eggplant Parmesan

Layer slices of eggplant with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for a classic Italian dish that highlights the rich flavor of eggplant.

Vegetable Lasagna

Combine layers of grilled eggplant, zucchini, and spinach with pasta and creamy béchamel sauce for a comforting vegetarian option.

Stuffed Tomatoes

Swap eggplants for tomatoes and stuff them with a blend of quinoa, herbs, and cheese for a fresh summer dish that bursts with flavor.