Imam Bayildi is a classic Turkish dish that showcases the beauty of Turkish Stuffed Eggplant, stuffed with a savory mixture of tomatoes and bulgur. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that transports your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Turkey. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors that are both comforting and satisfying.
The allure of Turkish Stuffed Eggplant with Imam Bayildi lies in its simplicity combined with rich flavors. Imagine tender eggplants, lovingly filled with a fragrant mixture, then baked to perfection. It’s an excellent vegetarian option that even non-vegetarians will adore, making it a versatile dish for any gathering.
Turkish Stuffed Eggplant with Imam Bayildi
This Turkish stuffed eggplant dish features tender eggplant halves filled with a delicious mix of tomatoes, bulgur, and aromatic spices. The result is a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing, with a taste that beautifully balances sweetness and acidity.
Ingredients
- 4 medium eggplants
- 1 cup bulgur, rinsed and drained
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplants: Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to create a boat. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Make the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the chopped tomatoes, bulgur, salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Stir well and add vegetable broth. Cook until bulgur is tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 10-15 minutes.
- Stuff the Eggplants: Rinse the eggplants to remove excess salt and pat dry. Fill each eggplant half with the bulgur mixture, pressing down slightly.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed eggplants in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and add a little water to the bottom of the dish. Cover with foil and bake for about 30-35 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the tops to brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve warm, drizzled with extra olive oil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
