Ooooh, now you’re talking next-level cozy-meets-exotic with these Moroccan-Spiced Beef Stuffed Eggplants — a little sweet, a little savory, super aromatic, and packed with flavor. Perfect for when you want something hearty and interesting.
🍆 Moroccan-Spiced Beef Stuffed Eggplants
Ingredients (serves 4):
For the Eggplants:
- 2 medium eggplants, halved lengthwise
- Olive oil
- Salt
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne (optional for heat)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- ¼ cup chopped dried apricots or golden raisins
- 2 tbsp pine nuts or chopped almonds (toasted)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
For Garnish:
- Greek yogurt or labneh
- Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, parsley)
- Pomegranate seeds (optional but ✨beautiful✨)
Instructions:
- Prep the Eggplants:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Score the flesh of each eggplant half in a crosshatch pattern.
- Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt.
- Roast cut-side up for 30–35 mins until soft and golden.
- Make the Filling:
- While eggplants roast, heat a skillet with olive oil.
- Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and spices.
- Add beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, apricots/raisins, and nuts.
- Simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors. Adjust seasoning.
- Stir in chopped herbs last.
- Assemble:
- Once eggplants are roasted, use a spoon to gently push down the centers (you can remove some flesh if needed).
- Fill generously with the beef mixture.
- Return to oven for 10 minutes to meld everything together.
- Serve:
- Drizzle with yogurt or a dollop of labneh.
- Top with fresh herbs and pomegranate seeds for a pop of freshness and color.
💡 Tips & Twists:
- Add a handful of cooked couscous or rice to the filling for extra body.
- Try ground lamb instead of beef for an even more traditional flavor profile.
- Great with a side of cucumber yogurt salad or warm flatbread.
Want a sultry, spice-market-style caption or a moody food reel concept for this one? I got you.
