Oven-Baked Turkish Eggplant Boats with Ground Beef

These oven-baked Turkish eggplant boats with ground beef (İmam Bayıldı) are a delicious and satisfying dish, featuring tender eggplants filled with a savory ground beef mixture. This Turkish classic is rich in flavor, and the combination of spices, herbs, and savory beef makes it an unforgettable meal. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering. Let’s dive into this mouth-watering recipe!

What You’ll Need:

• 4 medium eggplants

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the eggplants)

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tomatoes, chopped

• 1/4 cup tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a unique twist)

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional, for added texture)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Olive oil (for drizzling over the eggplant boats)

• 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth (for baking)

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplants

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out some of the flesh, creating a boat shape, and set aside the scooped-out flesh (you can use it for other recipes like dips or stews). Brush the eggplant halves with olive oil, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Why it works: Brushing the eggplants with oil helps them soften and brown while baking, and seasoning them beforehand adds flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Roast the Eggplant Boats

Place the eggplant boats in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they begin to soften and develop a golden brown color. They should still hold their shape when removed from the oven.

Why it works: Roasting the eggplants before adding the filling ensures they’re tender and ready to absorb the rich beef mixture.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef Filling

While the eggplants are roasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through.

Why it works: Sautéing the onion and garlic first builds a flavorful base for the ground beef, which absorbs all the spices and aromas as it cooks.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and cinnamon (if using). Add salt and pepper to taste, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.

Why it works: The tomatoes and spices bring depth and warmth to the filling, while the tomato paste enhances the savory richness of the beef.

Step 5: Stuff the Eggplants

Once the eggplant boats are roasted and tender, remove them from the oven. Spoon the ground beef mixture into each eggplant boat, filling them generously. You can also sprinkle some pine nuts over the top for added texture and flavor.

Why it works: Filling the eggplants with the beef mixture creates a perfect balance of tender eggplant and flavorful, hearty beef.

Step 6: Bake Again

Drizzle a little more olive oil over the stuffed eggplant boats, then return them to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the beef is fully cooked, and the eggplants are soft and browned.

Why it works: A second round of baking allows the beef to cook through and meld with the eggplant, making for a harmonious dish.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the eggplant boats from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, with rice or a simple salad on the side.

Why it works: The fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the dish.

A Flavorful Turkish Classic

These oven-baked Turkish eggplant boats with ground beef are a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender eggplants, savory ground beef filling, and aromatic spices make for a meal everyone will love.