Baked Eggplant with Cheddar and Herbs
This delicious baked eggplant dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The eggplant is first salted to draw out excess moisture, then layered with tomatoes, peppers, and a mix of savory spices. Topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese, it’s a satisfying and hearty dish. The combination of fresh herbs like parsley and green onions adds a burst of freshness, while sesame seeds give a delightful crunch. Whether served as a main or a side dish, this baked eggplant is sure to become a favorite!

Preparation Time

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Ingredients

1 eggplant
1 tomato, sliced
4 eggs
1 pepper, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Ground red pepper, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
A bunch of parsley, chopped
5-6 sprigs of green onions, chopped
Butter, for greasing the pan
Sesame seeds, for topping
100 grams cheddar cheese, grated
Method
Prepare the eggplant:
Slice the eggplant into rounds or lengthwise, depending on your preference. Sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture and reduce bitterness. After 10 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Prepare the filling:
While the eggplant is resting, chop the tomato, pepper, garlic, parsley, and green onions. In a bowl, combine the tomato, chopped pepper, garlic, parsley, and green onions. Season the mixture with salt, ground red pepper, and black pepper to taste.

Assemble the dish:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter. Arrange the eggplant slices in the dish, layering them neatly. Spoon the prepared vegetable mixture on top of the eggplant slices, spreading it evenly.

Bake the dish:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This will soften the eggplant and allow the flavors to meld.

Add cheese and sesame:
After 25 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top of the baked vegetables. Add sesame seeds for a bit of crunch. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with extra fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this flavorful, cheesy baked eggplant dish!

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 220
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 500mg
The Origins and Popularity of Eggplant Dishes
Eggplant, also known as aubergine in many parts of the world, is a staple in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines. Its ability to absorb flavors and its versatility make it a favorite in various dishes, from stews and curries to bakes and fries. The combination of eggplant with cheese and fresh herbs is popular in Mediterranean cooking, where ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and fresh vegetables come together to create dishes that are both satisfying and full of flavor. The popularity of baked eggplant dishes has spread worldwide, as the vegetable is a great alternative to meat in vegetarian meals. It is loved for its savory, umami flavor and soft texture when cooked.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked eggplant dish is comforting and full of flavor. The eggplant becomes tender and creamy, while the vegetables add freshness and richness. The cheese melts beautifully on top, creating a satisfying, golden crust. The addition of sesame seeds adds texture and depth, making this dish a complete and balanced meal. It’s easy to make, healthy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or as a side, you’ll love how simple yet flavorful it is.

Health Benefits of this Recipe
Eggplant is low in calories and packed with fiber, making it great for digestion and heart health. It also contains antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help protect the body from free radicals. Tomatoes, peppers, and garlic add additional health benefits, such as vitamin C and anti-inflammatory properties. The fresh herbs like parsley are rich in vitamins A and K, while sesame seeds provide healthy fats and minerals like calcium and magnesium. With the combination of these wholesome ingredients, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Serving Suggestions of Baked Eggplant with Cheddar and Herbs
This baked eggplant pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with a simple green salad, roasted potatoes, or couscous for a more filling meal. You could also serve it with a side of rice or quinoa to round out the dish. For a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve it alongside hummus and pita bread.

Tips

Make it vegan: To make this dish vegan, simply swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based cheese and use olive oil instead of butter to grease the pan.
Add other vegetables: You can customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the dish.
Make it spicier: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to the vegetable mixture for an extra kick.
Prepare in advance: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Variations to Try

Stuffed eggplant: Instead of layering the eggplant, you can hollow out the centers and stuff them with the vegetable mixture and cheese. Bake the stuffed eggplants until the filling is golden and bubbly.
Herb variations: Try using fresh basil, oregano, or thyme in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Meat version: Add cooked ground beef, lamb, or chicken to the vegetable mixture for a more filling, meaty version of this dish.
Conclusion
This baked eggplant with cheddar and herbs is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, packed with healthy vegetables, and topped with a creamy, cheesy glaze that makes every bite satisfying. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or at a gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With endless variations and customization options, it’s a versatile recipe that you’ll enjoy again and again.

Stuffed Cabbage with Rice and Minced Meat
Stuffed cabbage is a classic dish, popular in many cultures, that combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling of rice, minced meat, and vegetables. The filling is well-seasoned with herbs and spices, which give it a rich and satisfying flavor. A delicious sauce made with eggs and flour is poured over the dish before baking, giving it a creamy texture, while the surface is topped with parsley, red pepper, mint, and cheddar cheese for an extra burst of flavor. This hearty and nutritious meal is perfect for family gatherings or a comforting dinner at home.

Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Filling:
Cabbage: 1 large cabbage (1.5 kilograms)
Rice: 1 cup (125 grams)
Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons (30 ml)
Onion: 1, finely chopped
Carrot: 1, grated
Green Pepper: 1, chopped
Red Pepper: 1, chopped
Minced Meat: 400 grams (can be beef, lamb, or a mix)
Parsley: To taste, chopped
Salt: 1 teaspoon (8 grams)
Red Pepper Flakes: 1 teaspoon
Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
Mint: 1 teaspoon, dried
Allspice: 1 teaspoo
For the Sauce:
Eggs: 4
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Flour: 2 tablespoons (40 grams)
For the Surface:
Parsley: Fresh, chopped (for garnish)
Red Pepper: For garnish
Mint: Dried, for garnish
Cheddar Cheese: Grated (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Blanch the Cabbage:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully immerse the whole cabbage. Blanch the cabbage for 5-7 minutes, until the leaves start to soften. This will make it easier to separate the leaves for stuffing.
Drain the cabbage and allow it to cool slightly. Carefully remove the outer leaves, ensuring they remain whole. You will use these for wrapping the filling.
Cut and Remove the Core:
Once the cabbage has softened, cut out the core at the base and discard it. Gently peel off the leaves, trying to keep them as intact as possible.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, grated carrot, and chopped green and red peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent.
Cook the Meat:
Add the minced meat to the vegetables and cook until browned. Use a spatula to break up the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks.
Mix in the Rice:
Stir in the rice, allowing it to toast slightly for about 2 minutes. This step will give the rice a nice texture when it’s stuffed inside the cabbage.
Season the Filling:
Add salt, red pepper flakes, black pepper, mint, and allspice to the mixture. Stir well to combine, then remove from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding the fresh parsley.
Step 3: Stuff the Cabbage
Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:
Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the leaf, depending on the size of the leaf.
Roll the Cabbage:
Fold the sides of the cabbage leaf over the filling and roll it up tightly, similar to how you would roll a burrito. Repeat the process with the remaining leaves and filling.
Layer in a Baking Dish:
Grease a large baking dish with olive oil and arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls snugly in the dish, seam side down.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Whisk the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and flour until smooth. This will create a creamy, custard-like topping for the cabbage rolls.
Pour the Sauce Over the Cabbage Rolls:
Pour the sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls, making sure each one is well-coated.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bake the Cabbage Rolls:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the sauce has set.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Add the Toppings:
Once the cabbage rolls are baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the top with chopped parsley, red pepper, dried mint, and grated cheddar cheese.
Serve:
Serve the cabbage rolls warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Cooking Tips
Cabbage Choice:
Choose a large, firm cabbage with vibrant green leaves. Blanching the cabbage leaves will help soften them, making them easier to work with and roll.
Seasoning Adjustments:
Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the filling to suit your taste. You can add more or less red pepper flakes for heat, or experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Rice Alternatives:
For a healthier twist, you can substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa.
Meat Choices:
This recipe works well with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, or a combination. You can also make it vegetarian by replacing the meat with lentils or mushrooms.
Cheese Options:
If cheddar cheese isn’t your favorite, you can use mozzarella or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Storage
Leftovers:
Refrigerator: Store leftover stuffed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing:
Freezer: These stuffed cabbage rolls freeze well. Once cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approximation)
Calories: 350
Protein: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fat: 15 g
Fiber: 6 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

FAQs
1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the minced meat with plant-based options like lentils, mushrooms, or textured vegetable protein (TVP) to create a vegetarian version of this dish.

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2. How can I prevent the cabbage from tearing?
Blanching the cabbage leaves will soften them and make them easier to roll. Be gentle when handling the leaves to avoid tearing. If a leaf does tear, you can overlap another piece of cabbage to patch it.

3. Can I use a different grain instead of rice?
Yes, you can use other grains such as quinoa, bulgur, or even couscous. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the grains are cooked through.

4. How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
The cabbage rolls are done when the cabbage is tender, the filling is cooked through, and the sauce has set and slightly browned on top.

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5. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls a day in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to bake, pour the sauce over and bake as directed.

Conclusion
Stuffed cabbage with rice and minced meat is a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of tender cabbage leaves, savory filling, and creamy sauce makes this dish a winner for any occasion. Plus, it’s versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or reheated as leftovers, these stuffed cabbage rolls are a wholesome, hearty, and satisfying dish that everyone will love.