Stuffed eggplant

Stuffed eggplants are a cherished dish worldwide, with each country offering its own unique variation of the recipe.

In Turkey, this dish is known as Patlican Dolmasi. Here, eggplants are filled with a savory mix of minced meat, rice, onions, tomato paste, and an assortment of spices. Some cooks also enhance the flavor profile with ingredients like sumac, lemon juice, or nuts.

In Azerbaijan, the dish is called Badımcan Dolması. This version combines minced meat with chickpeas, and the mixture is then stuffed into not only eggplants but also tomatoes and sweet peppers.

In Palestine and Israel, stuffed eggplants are even more intricate. They are filled with a hearty blend of minced meat, rice, bulgur, and a diverse array of spices. Unique additions such as tamarind, date honey, and nutmeg impart a distinctive flavor to these eggplants.

Italy brings its own flair to stuffed eggplants. In Rome, the eggplants are baked and filled with gooey mozzarella cheese. In Sicily, violet eggplants are preferred and are typically stuffed with minced meat before being baked.

Each country infuses its own special touch into this versatile and delicious dish, making stuffed eggplants a truly global culinary delight.