Eggplant Casserole (Fatet Makdous)

May 22, 2023May 22, 20230 0
Eggplant Casserole (Fatet Makdous)
in Main

Prep

30 min

Cook

90 min

Ready In

120 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

3 large eggplants
1 lb ground beef
1 can crushed tomatoes
1 can tomato sauce
1 onion , finely chopped ( or 3 shallots )
2 garlic cloves , chopped
2 garlic cloves ( mashed in a mortar and pestle to use with yogurt )
3 -4 cups plain Greek yogurt
3 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
3 pita bread
1/2 cup toasted pine nuts
1/2 cup flat leaf parsley
1/4 cup clarified butter
olive oil
salt and pepper

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
6-8
Calories
451
Sugar
8g
Fat
26g
The Eggplant Casserole (Fatet Makdous) is a classic recipe from the Middle East, and is a popular comfort food among families and friends. The dish is typically served at large gatherings, such as weddings and birthday parties, and is often accompanied by fresh salads and other side dishes. The casserole is made by roasting eggplants until they are soft and tender, then layering them with a mixture of ground beef, tomato sauce, and crispy pita bread. The dish is finished off with a drizzle of yogurt, clarified butter, and toasted pine nuts, which add a rich, nutty flavor to the dish. The Eggplant Casserole (Fatet Makdous) is a hearty and filling meal that is sure to become a family favorite.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2.Grease a large baking dish with olive oil.
3.Cut off the tops of the eggplants, then pierce with a fork several times to prevent air pockets from forming.
4.Brush the eggplants with olive oil, then bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until the flesh is very soft.
5.Remove the eggplants from the oven, and let cool for a few minutes.
6.While the eggplants are cooling, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7.Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic, and cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat.
8.Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and pomegranate molasses. Reduce the heat to medium-low, and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, until slightly thickened and bubbly.
9.Cut the pita bread into small pieces, and toast in the oven or on the stovetop until crispy.
10.In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and the mashed garlic.
11.To assemble the casserole, spread a layer of the toasted pita bread in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
12.Spoon the beef mixture on top of the pita bread, followed by a layer of eggplant.
13.Drizzle some of the yogurt mixture over the eggplant, then repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up.
14.Drizzle the clarified butter over the top layer of eggplant, then sprinkle with pine nuts and parsley.
15.Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
16.Serve immediately.

PROS

The Eggplant Casserole (Fatet Makdous) is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish that combines tender eggplant with savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and crispy pita bread.

The dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, and the eggplant is a great source of dietary fiber.

CONS

As with most meat-based dishes, the Eggplant Casserole (Fatet Makdous) is relatively high in calories and fat.
However, using lean ground beef and reducing the amount of butter and pine nuts can help to make the dish lighter and more nutritious.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplant is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, magnesium, and potassium. Eating eggplant on a regular basis has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, and may also help to lower blood pressure and improve blood sugar control. Additionally, the ground beef provides a good dose of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.

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