Eggplant Rolls with Kofta: A Delicious Iraqi Dinner Recipe
If you’re planning a trip to Iraq and want to experience the country’s diverse culinary landscape, Eggplant Rolls with Kofta is a must-try dish. Known for its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this meal is popular for dinner, combining tender eggplant slices with spiced meatballs (kofta) in a flavorful tomato and pomegranate sauce. Whether you enjoy it with rice, Iraqi bread, or a side of salad, this dish will leave a lasting impression on your palate.
We’ll walk you through the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for serving this delicious Iraqi meal. Let’s dive into the details and bring the authentic taste of Iraq to your kitchen!
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Ingredients for Eggplant Rolls with Kofta
This dish features a balanced mix of vegetables, meat, and spices, delivering a rich and hearty meal. Below is the complete list of ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
Eggplants: Choose long eggplants, as they are easier to slice and roll.
Ground meat (beef or lamb): 500 grams
Onions: 1 large onion, finely chopped
Green bell pepper: 1 large, sliced
Celery: A few stalks, finely chopped
Potatoes: 2 medium-sized, sliced thinly
Vegetable oil or olive oil: For frying and baking
Spices:
Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
Sweet paprika: 1 teaspoon
Salt: As needed
Cayenne pepper (optional): ½ teaspoon
For the Sauce:
Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
Pomegranate molasses: 2 tablespoons
Water: 2 cups
Salt: To taste
Black pepper: To taste
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Preparing Eggplant Rolls with Kofta
1. Preparing the Eggplant
Start by slicing the eggplant into thin, long slices. These thin slices will make it easier to roll the kofta meat inside.
Option 1: Fry the eggplant slices in oil until soft and lightly golden. Place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Option 2: For a healthier alternative, lightly brush the eggplant slices with oil and grill them until tender.
> Tip: Frying the eggplant gives it a richer flavor, while grilling makes the dish lighter. Choose the method that suits your preference!
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2. Making the Kofta (Spiced Meatballs)
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground meat.
Mix in finely chopped onions and celery for extra flavor and texture.
Season with black pepper, paprika, and salt. If you enjoy spicy food, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Combine the ingredients thoroughly and shape the mixture into small logs that can be easily rolled inside the eggplant slices.
Lightly fry the kofta in a skillet until browned on all sides. Make sure they hold their shape but remain juicy.
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3. Assembling the Eggplant Rolls
Take one fried or grilled eggplant slice and place a piece of kofta at one end. Roll the eggplant slice tightly around the kofta to form a small roll (or roulade).
Repeat this process until all the kofta pieces are wrapped in eggplant slices.
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4. Arranging the Dish for Baking
Grease a baking dish (Pyrex) with a bit of oil.
Layer thin slices of potatoes at the bottom of the dish to prevent the eggplant rolls from sticking.
Add a few slices of onions and bell peppers on top of the potatoes to infuse more flavor into the dish.
Arrange the eggplant rolls neatly in the dish, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded.
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5. Preparing the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the tomato paste, pomegranate molasses, water, salt, and black pepper.
Mix well until the sauce is smooth. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Pour the sauce evenly over the eggplant rolls, making sure it covers the dish entirely.
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6. Baking the Eggplant Rolls with Kofta
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes or until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
In the final 5 minutes, sprinkle some chopped celery on top for added freshness and presentation.
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Serving Suggestions
Eggplant Rolls with Kofta is best enjoyed warm, accompanied by traditional Iraqi bread or a side of steamed rice. For a lighter touch, you can serve it with a fresh yogurt dip and a simple cucumber-tomato salad.
Here are a few serving ideas:
With Iraqi Bread: Dip the bread in the rich sauce for a delightful bite.
With Rice: Serve the eggplant rolls over a bed of fluffy basmati rice.
With Salad: Pair it with a fresh side salad, such as fattoush or tabbouleh.
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Why You Should Try This Dish
This recipe is perfect for travelers who want to explore the culinary side of Iraq. It reflects the country’s love for hearty and flavorful meals, combining tender vegetables with aromatic spices and juicy meat. The addition of pomegranate molasses in the sauce introduces a sweet-tart flavor that elevates the dish to another level.
Whether you’re dining with family or hosting friends, this dish makes an excellent centerpiece. The preparation process is enjoyable, and the end result is worth the effort. For visitors to Iraq, trying Eggplant Rolls with Kofta is a delicious way to connect with the local food culture.