Karniyarik: The Ultimate Stuffed Eggplant Recipe for Food Lovers

 

   Eggplants are a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in many ways, and Karniyarik is one of  the most delicious eggplant dishes you will ever taste. Originating from Turkish cuisine,  Karniyarik is a stuffed eggplant dish that is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying.

   In this blog post, we will walk you through the steps of making the perfect Karniyarik,  including ingredients, cooking method, and tips to get the best results.

   Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized eggplants
• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 red pepper, chopped
• 1 green pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup mint, chopped
• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• 1 cup of water
• 1 cup of yogurt (optional)

   Cooking Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplants lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer on the inside. Reserve the scooped out flesh.
3. In a frying pan, heat the oil and add the chopped onion. Fry until golden brown.
4. Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
5. Add the minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, red and green peppers, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes.
6. Add the reserved eggplant flesh and cook for 5 more minutes.
7. Stir in the parsley, dill, and mint.
8. Fill the eggplant halves with the meat mixture and place them in a baking dish.
9. Pour water and remaining oil over the eggplants and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes.
10. Serve with yogurt on the side, if desired.

   Tips:

• For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with a mixture of sauteed vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and carrots.
• You can also add feta cheese or pine nuts to the filling for a different flavor profile.
• For a crispier texture, you can also shallow fry the eggplants before stuffing them.

   Karniyarik is a perfect dish for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions. It's a great  way to enjoy eggplants in a new and delicious way, and the stuffing options are endless, so you can  tailor it to your taste preferences.

   In conclusion, Karniyarik is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves eggplants, Turkish cuisine,  or just wants to try something new. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you.