Ingredients

1 eggplant , cut into 1-inch cubes
salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large sweet onion , coarsely chopped
2 large stalks celery , sliced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 pinches dried oregano
2 pinches ground dried rosemary
2 pinches paprika
1/8 teaspoon dried mint
1 pinch salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic , minced
3 tomatoes , coarsely chopped
1 cup chicken broth
1 can tomato sauce
1 pound ground lamb
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lemon , juiced , or to taste
Mama's Oh-So-Savory Lamb and Eggplant Casserole is a hearty and fulfilling dish that will definitely satisfy your cravings for a tasty dinner. This dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, with tender lamb mince, soft and chewy eggplant, and juicy tomatoes in every bite. What makes it more special is its unique seasoning and spices that add savory and aromatic flavors. It is a filling meal for a family dinner or a home gathering with loved ones. Mama’s recipe has been handed down over generations, making it a family favorite for years to come.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2.Spread the cubes of eggplant out onto a baking sheet and sprinkle generously with salt. Set aside to allow the salt to draw out the liquid for 20-30 minutes.
3.While the eggplant is resting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet onion and celery, cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and onions are translucent, for about 10 minutes.
4.Add cumin, oregano, rosemary, paprika, dried mint, salt and black pepper. Cook, stirring, 1 minute until fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring, 1 additional minute. Remove from heat.
5.Rinse the eggplant cubes and pat them dry with paper towels. In a separate skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant and cook, stirring, until lightly golden brown and just tender, about 10 minutes.
6.Stir eggplant, tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato sauce and lamb into the onion mixture. Simmer for 5-10 minutes or until lamb is done.
7.Add lemon juice to the mixture and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
8.Transfer the mixture into a medium-sized, oven-safe casserole dish. Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.

PROS

Mama’s lamb and eggplant casserole is filled with savory and delicious flavors, perfect for dinner time with your loved ones!
The eggplant is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, while the lamb provides protein, iron and other nutrients necessary for a healthy diet.

CONS

The dish is quite high in calories and fat content compared to other recipes, thus it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal plan.

The overall preparation time is more than an hour, so it might not be suitable for a quick meal.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The combination of eggplant and lamb in this dish provides essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients for a healthier body. Eggplants are rich in antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of heart disease, improve cognitive function, lower cholesterol levels, and maintain healthy skin.
Lamb is an excellent source of protein, iron, vitamin B12, and zinc. It helps in maintaining bone health, promotes muscle growth, and improves immune function.

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