Turkish Eggplant Dinner Casserole (The Imam Fainted)
Turkish Eggplant Dinner Casserole, known as "The Imam Fainted," is a delicious and hearty dish packed with flavor. It brings together the rich, earthy taste of eggplant and savory ingredients that create a comforting meal. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or enjoying leftovers for lunch, this casserole is sure to please.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for several reasons. First, it’s a vegetarian dish that is full of nutrients. The eggplant is a great source of fiber and the spices add both flavor and health benefits. Second, it’s simple to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Finally, the dish has a unique story behind its name, which adds an interesting twist to your dinner table conversation.
How to Make Turkish Eggplant Dinner Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplant (or 4 small Italian eggplant), about 1 3/4 pound, thinly sliced 1/4 inch thick lengthwise
- Sea salt
- Olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
- Dash of cinnamon
- One 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley, divided
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Lightly salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 20 minutes. Afterward, pat the slices dry and set aside.
- Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Add more oil as needed between batches to avoid burning, but use only enough to grease the pan. Remove the eggplant and place it on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté over medium heat until it becomes soft, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic, red chili flakes, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and a dash of cinnamon. Cook for one more minute until fragrant.
- Carefully pour in the diced tomatoes and let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in half of the chopped parsley.
- If using an oven-proof skillet, remove 3/4 of the sauce to a bowl, leaving a thin layer in the skillet. If using a regular casserole dish, add 1/4 cup of the sauce to the bottom.
- Layer the eggplant slices evenly in the skillet or casserole dish. Add a layer of sauce, and repeat the process with the remaining eggplant and sauce, just like you would with a lasagna.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. The eggplant should be very soft and the sauce reduced. Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with the remaining parsley.
How to Serve Turkish Eggplant Dinner Casserole
Serve this casserole warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread. You can also enjoy it as a main dish or a side dish for grilled meats.
How to Store Turkish Eggplant Dinner Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Turkish Eggplant Dinner Casserole
- Make sure to salt the eggplant to remove excess moisture and bitterness.
- Use good-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add spices like cumin or paprika for an extra kick.
Variation
You can add ground meat like lamb or beef between the layers for a non-vegetarian version. Also, try adding different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the layers.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Is there a substitute for eggplant?
While eggplant is key to this recipe, you can use zucchini or mushrooms as a substitute, but the flavor will differ.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Enjoy making and sharing this tasty Turkish Eggplant Dinner Casserole! Its rich flavors and simple preparation will soon make it a favorite in your home.
