Piquant Crab and Eggplant (Aubergine) Dressing
Description
This piquant crab and eggplant dressing is a delightful Cajun-inspired dish that offers a perfect blend of flavors and a spicy kick. Originally discovered online, this recipe has been tweaked to create a unique and satisfying side dish, although it can also be enjoyed as a main course. The combination of sweet crab meat and creamy eggplant puree, enhanced by aromatic herbs and spices, creates a robust and hearty dish that is sure to impress. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your personal taste.
Recipe Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 50 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
| Servings | 4-6 servings |
| Cuisine | Cajun |
| Category | Crab |
| Keywords | Vegetable, Cajun, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, < 4 Hours |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 4-8 tablespoons |
| Onions | 3 (chopped) |
| Celery ribs | 2 (chopped) |
| Bell peppers | 2 (chopped) |
| Eggplants (aubergine) | 4-6 (peeled and cubed) |
| Cayenne pepper | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| White pepper | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Black pepper | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Tabasco sauce | 4-6 dashes |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Green onions (scallions) | 1 (sliced) |
| Parsley | 1 (chopped) |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup (grated) |
| Bread crumbs | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 354 |
| Total Fat | 17.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 107.9 mg |
| Sodium | 973.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 33.8 g |
| Fiber | 15.7 g |
| Sugar | 13.5 g |
| Protein | 21.3 g |
Instructions
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Melt the Butter: Begin by melting the butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat. This will create a rich base for the dish.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery ribs to the melted butter. Cook these vegetables gently, stirring occasionally, until they become very soft and fragrant, approximately 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Eggplant: While the vegetables are cooking, peel the eggplants and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubed eggplant in a pot and cover with water. Bring the water to a boil and let the eggplant simmer for a few minutes until it is tender. Drain the eggplant well.
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Puree the Eggplant: Using a food processor or blender, puree the drained eggplant until it reaches a smooth consistency. This puree will add a creamy texture to the dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the eggplant puree to the softened vegetable mixture. Then, incorporate the cayenne pepper, white pepper, black pepper, salt, Tabasco sauce, dried thyme, dried basil, and dried oregano. If there is any juice from the canned crab, add that as well. Stir everything together and return the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for another 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.
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Add the Crab: Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful to check for and remove any shell pieces. Cook just long enough to heat the crab through, ensuring it remains tender and does not overcook.
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Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove the pot from heat, then stir in the sliced green onions and chopped parsley. This will enhance the freshness of the dish and add vibrant color.
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Prepare for Baking: Spoon the hot crab and eggplant mixture into a casserole dish or individual ramekins if you prefer individual servings.
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Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Generously sprinkle the mixture with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. This will create a deliciously crispy topping once baked.
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Broil to Finish: Place the casserole or ramekins under the broiler for just long enough for the cheese to melt and turn golden brown. This usually takes only a few minutes, so keep a close eye to avoid burning.
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Serve Immediately: Once the cheese has melted and achieved a lovely golden color, remove from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy the piquant flavors and creamy texture of this delightful Cajun dish!
Final Thoughts
This Piquant Crab and Eggplant Dressing is a versatile dish that can shine as a robust side or a standalone meal. Its spicy notes and rich textures make it a perfect addition to any dinner table, especially for those who appreciate the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. Enjoy sharing this recipe with family and friends, and feel free to experiment with the spice levels to make it your own.
