If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender eggplant with savory minced meat, all wrapped in a comforting dough, this recipe is perfect for you. It’s a delicious way to enjoy eggplant and makes for an impressive dish that’s relatively simple to prepare. Here’s how to make eggplant with minced meat in dough.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2 inch thick rounds

• 500 grams of minced meat (beef, pork, chicken, or turkey)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)

• 500 grams of ready-made dough (puff pastry or pizza dough works well)

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplants:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, brush both sides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

• Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until soft and slightly golden. Remove and set aside to cool.

2. Cook the Minced Meat:

• While the eggplant is roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat.

• Add a tablespoon of olive oil, the chopped onion, and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.

• Add the minced meat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.

• Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in the chopped parsley and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Dish:

• On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

• Arrange the roasted eggplant slices over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.

• Spread the cooked minced meat evenly over the eggplant slices. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese if using.

• Carefully fold the dough over the filling, starting from one end to the other, to create a large roll. Seal the edges by pinching the dough together.

4. Bake:

• Transfer the roll to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

• Brush the top of the dough with beaten egg to give it a nice golden color while baking.

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the dough is golden and puffed.

5. Serve:

• Let the roll cool for a few minutes before slicing.

• Serve warm with a side of light salad or your choice of dipping sauce.

Conclusion:

This eggplant with minced meat in dough is not only delicious but also presents beautifully, making it ideal for gatherings or a special family dinner. The combination of soft eggplant, flavorful meat, and crispy dough creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.