Eggplant is often underrated, but it can be the star of many dishes. This Moroccan-inspired aubergine stew is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s both vegan and gluten-free. Rooted in Middle Eastern cuisine and popular in Greek food, this stew is perfect for those seeking a dish with oomph and flavor.
This recipe is inspired by the flavors of a Moroccan dish called zaalouk, a warm salad of cooked eggplant and tomato. Adding chickpeas makes it a substantial entrée perfect for slow weekend dinners or meal prepping for the week.
This stew comes together quickly and easily, and the flavor is heightened by the addition of assertive Moroccan spices. Cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, a pinch of cinnamon, and red pepper flakes make this stew bold and flavorful.
One of the best things about stews is that they make even better leftovers. Store any leftovers in the freezer for those days when no one wants to cook or knows what to cook. Having something wildly delicious and ready-to-go in the freezer always makes me happy.
Another benefit to vegetable stews is that they are inherently vegan. This stew is so hearty and wholesome; most people won't even know it doesn't have any meat.
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The spices are what elevate this dish from a simple stew to something that is bold and flavorful. It comes together easily and simmers on the stove to fill your house with an amazing aroma.
Key Ingredients for the Best Moroccan Aubergine Stew
- Eggplant: Choose eggplants with smooth and shiny skin. Globe, Japanese, Italian, or even Fairytale eggplants work well.
- Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are convenient, but you can use 2 cups of chickpeas cooked from scratch.
- Tomatoes: A combination of tomato paste and diced tomatoes forms the stew base.
- Harissa: This chili pepper, garlic, and spice condiment adds flavor and a little heat.
- Onion and Garlic: Yellow onion is preferred, but red or white can be used.
- Plain Yogurt: Adds creaminess and richness.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds freshness. Use cilantro or mint if you prefer.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to make this delicious Moroccan-inspired aubergine stew:
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (218 C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Add diced eggplant, drizzle with avocado or olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat and roast for 30-35 minutes, flipping / tossing near the 20-minute mark.
- In the meantime, heat a large rimmed pan or pot over medium heat. Once hot, add oil (or water) and onions.
- Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, or until soft and slightly caramelized.
- Add garlic, cumin, and paprika and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute more.
- Add tomatoes and their juices as well as water (or vegetable broth). Cover and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 4 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Remove cover and add (rinsed, drained) chickpeas (optional), maple syrup, and harissa paste and stir to coat. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat.
- Remove roasted eggplant from oven, turn oven off, and add eggplant to the tomatoes and chickpeas. Stir to combine and cover.
- Simmer over medium-low / low heat for another 10 minutes to allow flavors to deepen.
- Taste and adjust flavors as needed, adding more maple syrup to balance the heat, cumin, or paprika for smokiness, salt to taste, or harissa paste for spice.
- Serve as is or over rice or grain of choice (or pasta or roasted vegetables) with wedges of fresh lemon and fresh chopped parsley or cilantro. Additional harissa paste can be added as garnish for additional heat.
Eggplant Zaalouk
Tips for the Perfect Aubergine Stew
- Cut Eggplant Evenly: Eggplant cut into 1-inch cubes is the best size for a hearty dish and tender bite.
- Don’t Overcook Eggplant: Cooking the eggplant separately allows it to brown and develop more flavor without becoming mushy.
- Add Lemon Juice Last: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten the stew with a citrusy flavor.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This recipe is very flexible. Here are a few ideas to customize it:
- Add Other Vegetables: Diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers can be added for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use Different Spices: Experiment with Ethiopian Bebere seasoning or curry powder instead of chili powder.
- Serve with Grains: Enjoy the stew over rice, couscous, millet, or even toast.
- Add Greens: Stir in spinach or other leafy greens for added nutrition.
- Make it Low-Carb: Substitute Quorn pieces for the chickpeas.
Storage Instructions
Store completely cooled leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Nutritional Information (Estimate)
The nutritional information provided is an estimate that can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
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This Moroccan aubergine stew is a delightful and versatile dish that's sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of cooking and experimenting with flavors to create your perfect stew!
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tags: #Moroccan
