Eggplant Caviar Recipe - Vegan Russian Dish

Eggplant Caviar

Eggplant Caviar Recipe - Vegan Russian Dish
Region / culture: Russia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 | Vegan diet

Introduction

Eggplant Caviar
Eggplant Caviar

Eggplant caviar is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a dip, spread, or side dish. It is a popular dish in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, known for its rich and savory flavors.

History

Eggplant caviar has its origins in the Mediterranean region, where eggplants are a staple ingredient in many dishes. The dish is believed to have been created as a way to use up leftover eggplants and other vegetables, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Prick the eggplant in several places with a fork.
  2. Place the eggplant on a baking sheet and bake it in a 400°F oven for 45 minutes or until it becomes soft, turning it once or twice during baking.
  3. Let the eggplant cool, then peel it and finely chop it.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped eggplant, onions, garlic, tomato, and celery; toss and mix them together.
  5. Add the lemon juice, oil, salt, and pepper; mix everything well.
  6. Cover the mixture and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend. This recipe makes 3 cups.

Variations

  • Add roasted red peppers or olives for a different flavor profile.
  • Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to prick the eggplant before baking to prevent it from bursting.

- Be sure to peel the eggplant after baking to remove the skin, which can be tough and bitter.

- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the eggplant caviar with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the eggplant gives it a smoky flavor and a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the eggplant caviar with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the eggplant caviar with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a mezze platter.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

90

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 12g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 5g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Calcium: 2% DV

- Iron: 4% DV

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

This eggplant caviar recipe is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy and delicious option for a snack or side dish.

Summary

Eggplant caviar is a flavorful and healthy dish that is perfect for serving as a dip, spread, or side dish. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother, who was the best cook I had ever known, had been invited to a neighbor's house for dinner. As a curious and eager child, I begged her to let me come along and watch her cook.

That evening, as the sun was setting and the air was filled with the delicious smells of garlic and herbs, I watched in awe as my grandmother prepared a dish unlike any I had ever seen before. It was called Eggplant Caviar, and it was a rich and savory spread made from roasted eggplants, tomatoes, and onions.

As my grandmother worked her magic in the kitchen, I hung on her every word, determined to learn the secrets of this amazing dish. She explained to me how she had first learned to make Eggplant Caviar from a dear friend who had traveled to Russia and brought the recipe back with her.

I watched as she carefully roasted the eggplants over an open flame, turning them until they were soft and charred on the outside. She then peeled off the skin and mashed the flesh into a smooth puree. Next, she sautéed onions and garlic in olive oil until they were golden brown, adding in diced tomatoes and a splash of vinegar for acidity.

Once the mixture had cooked down into a thick, luscious spread, my grandmother seasoned it with salt, pepper, and a generous handful of fresh herbs. She then let it cool before serving it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

The first bite of Eggplant Caviar was a revelation. The smoky flavor of the roasted eggplant combined with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the sharpness of the garlic and herbs created a taste sensation unlike anything I had ever experienced before. It was rich and complex, with layers of flavor that seemed to unfold with each bite.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged my grandmother to teach me how to make Eggplant Caviar, and she was more than happy to pass on her knowledge to me. Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe.

I have experimented with different herbs and spices, added in a splash of balsamic vinegar for sweetness, and even roasted the eggplants with a drizzle of honey for a touch of smokiness. But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the memory of that first taste of Eggplant Caviar will always hold a special place in my heart.

Now, as I prepare this dish for my own grandchildren, I think back to that evening in my grandmother's kitchen and smile. It was a moment of pure joy and discovery, and it set me on a path of culinary exploration that has brought me endless happiness and satisfaction.

I am grateful to my grandmother for introducing me to the wonders of Eggplant Caviar, and I know that this recipe will continue to be a cherished part of our family for generations to come.

Categories

| Celery Recipes | Eggplant Recipes | Green Onion Recipes | Russian Recipes | Slavic Recipes | Vegan Recipes |

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