Discover the culinary treasure of the Middle East with Marvelous Makdous, a traditional dish featuring tender eggplants stuffed with a flavorful mix of walnuts, garlic, and Middle Eastern spices. Preserved in olive oil, these bite-sized delights offer a unique combination of textures and flavors, making them a perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals or a delightful snack on their own.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for eggplants)
- Preserving Time: 5-7 days
- Total Time: 40 minutes plus preserving time
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: Varies depending on the number of eggplants
- Serving Size: 2-3 stuffed eggplants
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fiber: 4 g
Ingredients
- Small eggplants: 10-12
- Walnuts, coarsely chopped: 200 grams (7.1 ounces / 0.44 pounds)
- Garlic cloves, minced: 30 grams (1 ounce / 0.066 pounds)
- Ground red pepper: 5 grams (0.18 ounces / 0.01 pounds)
- Ground coriander: 5 grams (0.18 ounces / 0.01 pounds)
- Olive oil: for preserving
- Salt: for seasoning and preserving
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Preparing Eggplants: Slit the eggplants lengthwise and soak them in salted water.
- Cooking Eggplants: Boil the eggplants until tender but firm. Drain and press to remove excess water.
- Making the Filling: Mix walnuts, garlic, red pepper, coriander, and a pinch of salt.
- Stuffing Eggplants: Stuff each eggplant with the walnut mixture.
- Preserving: Place the stuffed eggplants in a jar, cover with olive oil, and seal. Let them sit for 5-7 days to marinate.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Ensure eggplants are fully submerged in olive oil for proper preservation.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and spices to suit your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can Makdous be stored?
Properly preserved in olive oil, Makdous can be stored for several months.
Can I add other ingredients to the stuffing?
Yes, ingredients like pomegranate molasses or chili can be added for extra flavor.
Is Makdous served cold or warm?
Makdous is typically served at room temperature as a part of mezze platters.