Ingredients

3 large eggplants
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups water
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic , minced
1/4 cup chopped fennel bulb
1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 pinch cayenne pepper , or to taste
1/2 cup fresh French bread crumbs
2 1/2 tablespoons butter , melted
If you're looking for a flavorful and comforting meal, this New Orleans Eggplant Casserole is a perfect choice. The dish is a mix of tender eggplant, fluffy rice, and seasoned ground beef, all baked to perfection with a crunchy bread crumb topping. It is a popular dish in New Orleans cuisine, and it can be served as a main course or a side dish. Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in many different ways, but this recipe showcases its hearty flavor and unique texture. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple preparation, it is a great option for busy weeknights.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2.Peel and cube the eggplant and cook in boiling salted water for 10 minutes.
3.Rinse in cold water, drain well, and mash.
4.Cook rice according to package instructions.
5.In a large skillet, heat oil and sauté garlic, fennel, ground beef, celery, onion, and green bell pepper until beef is browned.
6.Add eggplant, cayenne, rice, and salt to the skillet, stirring to blend well.
7.In a separate bowl, mix together bread crumbs and butter.
8.Spread the eggplant mixture in a casserole dish, sprinkle crumb mixture over the top.
9.Bake for 40 minutes.
10.Let cool before serving.

PROS

This Eggplant Casserole is a hearty dish that can serve as a complete meal.

Eggplant is a low-calorie and high-fiber vegetable, making it a great addition to any diet.

This recipe is easy and quick to prepare.

CONS

The recipe includes ground beef, which may not be suitable for vegetarians or those who avoid red meat.

Eggplant can be bitter, so it is important to prepare it properly before cooking.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplant is known to be a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, and minerals such as potassium and copper.
It also contains powerful antioxidants like nasunin that may help prevent cancer and reduce cholesterol levels.
Ground beef is a good source of protein, zinc, vitamin B12, and iron.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.