Ingredients

2 large eggplants , sliced lengthways
salt
3 potatoes , peeled and sliced lengthways
3 courgettes , sliced lengthways
7 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions , sliced
1 head garlic , cloves peeled and left whole
1 can chopped tomatoes
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Iman Bayaldi is a Greek-inspired dish that translates to "the imam fainted". Legend has it that a Turkish imam swooned after eating this dish, which is a testament to its deliciousness. The dish consists of alternating layers of sliced eggplants, potatoes, and courgettes, topped with a tomato and onion sauce. It is flavored with cinnamon, which adds a warm and earthy note. This dish can be served hot or cold and pairs perfectly with a side of Greek salad for a light and refreshing meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2.Season the eggplants with salt and leave them to sit in a colander for 30 minutes to remove excess water.
3.Pat the eggplants dry with a paper towel. Heat 5 tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan and fry the eggplants for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
4.In another frying pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the cinnamon and chopped tomatoes and stir to combine.
5.In a baking dish, arrange the fried eggplants, covering the bottom of the dish. Add a layer of sliced potatoes and then a layer of sliced courgettes on top of the potatoes. Spoon the tomato and onion mixture over the courgettes and repeat with another layer of eggplants, potatoes, and courgettes.
6.Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden brown.
7.Serve hot or cold with a side of Greek salad.

PROS

Iman Bayaldi is a healthy and delicious vegetarian main course that is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
The layers of eggplants, potatoes, and courgettes make for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

CONS

This recipe requires some prep work, such as slicing the vegetables and frying the eggplants.
Additionally, some people may find the eggplant texture to be too mushy.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplants are a good source of dietary fiber and antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation. Additionally, the potassium and magnesium in eggplants can help regulate blood pressure.

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