Have you ever tried the delightful flavors of Turkish cuisine? Get ready to experience a burst of rich and savory tastes with our exquisite recipe for Hunkar Begendi Smoky Eggplant Puree. This traditional Turkish dish combines the smoky goodness of roasted eggplant with a creamy and cheesy béchamel sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing your guests with a taste of the Mediterranean. Let’s dive into creating this flavorful masterpiece!
Title: Hunkar Begendi Smoky Eggplant Puree
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the whole eggplants on a baking sheet and pierce them with a fork in several places.
2. Roast the eggplants in the oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
3. Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes until it is well incorporated.
5. In a separate saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste, and cook for 2-3 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
6. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the sauce until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Cut the roasted eggplants in half and scoop out the flesh, discarding the skin. Mash the eggplant flesh with a fork until smooth.
8. Add the mashed eggplant to the béchamel sauce, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Continue cooking the mixture over low heat for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
10. Remove the Hunkar Begendi from the heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.
Serve the Hunkar Begendi warm alongside your favorite grilled meats or vegetables. Enjoy the velvety texture and smoky essence of this Turkish-inspired delight!
Capture the essence of Turkish cuisine with this delectable Hunkar Begendi Smoky Eggplant Puree. The combination of roasted eggplant, creamy béchamel sauce, and savory Parmesan cheese creates a dish that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Istanbul. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering with friends and family. Embrace the flavors of Turkey with this recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
