When it comes to comforting meals that bring warmth and flavor to your table, a casserole is always a winning choice. This Eggplant Lamb and Yogurt Casserole recipe is a delightful combination of savory lamb, creamy yogurt, and tender eggplant, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish!
Eggplant Lamb and Yogurt Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Begin by preparing the eggplant. Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, sprinkle them with salt, and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This will help to draw out any bitterness from the eggplant. After 15 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground lamb until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the lamb. Cook for a few minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
5. Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Allow the spices to toast for a minute until fragrant.
6. Layer half of the eggplant slices in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Top with half of the lamb mixture.
7. Repeat the layering process with the remaining eggplant slices and lamb mixture.
8. In a bowl, mix the plain yogurt with a dash of salt. Spread the yogurt evenly over the top of the casserole.
9. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the yogurt layer.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
11. Once cooked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy this Eggplant Lamb and Yogurt Casserole warm, straight from the oven. The layers of tender eggplant, flavorful lamb, and creamy yogurt create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This dish is a great option for a cozy dinner at home or a potluck with friends. It’s sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting appeal. Share this delicious casserole recipe with your loved ones and savor the hearty goodness together!
