Papoutsakias (Stuffed Eggplant (Aubergine))

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 4

Greek-style stuffed eggplant that melts in your mouth

Papoutsakias (Stuffed Eggplant (Aubergine))

by The Chefin Entree

Prep

25 min

Cook

50 min

Ready In

75 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

375

Sugar

10g

Fat

25g

Papoutsakias are a traditional Greek dish meaning 'little shoes', as the stuffed eggplants resemble a shoe. These stuffed eggplants are mouth-watering and easy to make, and offer a delicious low-carb alternative. Their soft, melting texture along with its meaty filling makes them a popular, comfort food in Greece.

Instructions

1.	Cut the top off each eggplant and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh, leaving a shell.
2.	Sprinkle salt inside the eggplant shells and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to extract some of the bitter juices.
3.	Rinse the eggplant shells and pat them dry with a paper towel.
4.	In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and saute the garlic until fragrant.
5.	Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned.
6.	Add the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and basil to the pan and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
7.	Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).
8.	Stuff the eggplant shells with the meat mixture and place them in a baking dish.
9.	Bake the stuffed eggplants in the oven for 30-40 minutes, until the eggplant is tender and the filling is cooked through.
10.	Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of each eggplant, and let them sit for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.

PROS

Papoutsakias are a satisfying and hearty meal that is full of flavors.

The eggplant acts as a low-carb alternative to carbohydrate-heavy meals.

CONS

Eggplants contain solanine, which can make some people sensitive, leading to diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

The dish requires a lot of preparation time and is oven-cooked, so be careful when serving.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplant is rich in vitamins and minerals, fiber and antioxidants, and can help in preventing cardiovascular disease.
The dish is also vegetarian-friendly, and is a perfect addition to a plant-based diet.

	3 medium eggplants
	1 lb ground beef or 1 lb ground lamb
	1 can tomato sauce
	1/3 cup olive oil
	4 garlic cloves
	2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
	basil
	salt and pepper