Vegetarian Stuffed Eggplant

Looking to add a flavorful Lebanese twist to your next meatless meal? This Vegetarian Stuffed Eggplant recipe is the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and traditional Lebanese spices. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious aroma and hearty taste. Let’s get cooking!

Title: Vegetarian Stuffed Eggplant

Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the skin. Reserve the flesh for later use.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplant shells and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the shells are slightly softened.
4. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
5. Add the reserved eggplant flesh, chickpeas, ground cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender.
6. Stir in the cooked quinoa, chopped parsley, chopped mint, and chopped walnuts. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Remove the eggplant shells from the oven. Stuff them with the quinoa mixture, packing it in gently.
8. Top each stuffed eggplant with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
9. Return the stuffed eggplants to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the eggplant shells are fully cooked and the filling is heated through.
10. Once done, garnish with additional fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

This Vegetarian Stuffed Eggplant recipe is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavors of eggplant and chickpeas with the warmth of Lebanese spices. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with loved ones, this recipe is sure to please. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices or add a protein of your choice for a heartier meal. Enjoy the rich textures and lively flavors of this Lebanese-inspired dish!