Eggplant (Aubergine) With Pomegranate Molasses
Description
Embark on a culinary adventure with this delectable Eggplant (Aubergine) with Pomegranate Molasses recipe from lovewithrecipes.com. This dish combines the rich, earthy flavors of Japanese eggplants with the sweet and tangy notes of pomegranate molasses, creating a mouthwatering vegetable dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Let’s gather all the necessary ingredients for this flavorful journey:
- 1 1/2 Japanese eggplants
- Olive oil (for brushing and baking)
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh mint
- 1 bunch of flat-leaf parsley
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds
Nutrition Facts
For those mindful of their nutritional intake, here’s a quick look at what each serving offers:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60.1 kcal |
| Fat Content | 3.6 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 0.5 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0 mg |
| Sodium Content | 390.9 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 7.2 g |
| Fiber Content | 4 g |
| Sugar Content | 2.9 g |
| Protein Content | 1.3 g |
Preparation Times
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 24 minutes |
| Total Time | 39 minutes |
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your perfect Eggplant (Aubergine) with Pomegranate Molasses:
-
Start the preparation the day before serving.
Begin by planning ahead to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. ⏳ -
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Get your oven nice and hot to ensure the eggplants cook to perfection. -
Lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil.
This will prevent the eggplant slices from sticking and help them crisp up nicely. 🫒 -
Remove the stem end from each eggplant.
Discard the stems to prepare the eggplants for slicing. -
Slice the eggplants on the bias into 1/2-inch thick ovals.
Cutting the eggplants on the bias will give you attractive, elongated slices that cook evenly. -
Spread the slices on the baking sheet in a single layer and brush with olive oil.
Ensure each slice is well-coated with olive oil to enhance the roasting process. -
Bake the eggplants for 12 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Flip the slices halfway through to achieve that perfect golden color on both sides. 🔄 -
Using a spatula, transfer the slices, overlapping slightly, to a shallow serving dish.
Arrange them artfully for a stunning presentation. 🍆 -
In a small bowl, combine the pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, garlic, sugar, olive oil, and salt; blend well.
This sauce is the star of the dish, bringing together sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. 🌟 -
Drizzle the sauce over the eggplant.
Ensure each slice is generously coated to absorb the delicious sauce. -
Top with the mint, parsley, and pomegranate seeds.
These fresh herbs and vibrant seeds add a burst of color and flavor to the dish. 🌿🍇 -
Cover with plastic wrap and let stand until ready to serve.
Allow the dish to rest, letting the flavors meld together harmoniously. -
(Can be refrigerated overnight, but is best served at room temperature.)
This dish is even better when prepared in advance, making it a convenient choice for entertaining.
Tips for Success
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggplants, mint, parsley, and pomegranate seeds make all the difference in this dish.
- Perfect Slicing: Ensure your eggplant slices are of uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Balanced Seasoning: Taste the sauce before drizzling and adjust the lemon juice, salt, or sugar as needed to suit your preference.
- Room Temperature: Serving at room temperature allows the flavors to be more pronounced and enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Starter: Serve as an elegant appetizer with warm pita bread or crostini.
- Side Dish: Pair with grilled meats or fish for a well-rounded meal.
- Vegetarian Delight: Enjoy as a main course for a light and satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Enjoying Your Creation
Once you’ve put in the effort to prepare this exquisite dish, it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor. The combination of roasted eggplants with the sweet and tangy pomegranate molasses sauce, accented by fresh herbs and pomegranate seeds, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. 🍽️
Share this dish with family and friends, and bask in the compliments that are sure to come your way. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a home cook looking to impress, this Eggplant (Aubergine) with Pomegranate Molasses recipe is a surefire way to bring a touch of gourmet elegance to your table. Bon appétit! 🌟
