Savory Ricotta and Lamb-Stuffed Eggplants
Indulge in this delightful twist on the classic moussaka with our Savory Ricotta and Lamb-Stuffed Eggplants. Each half of the eggplant serves as a perfect vessel, filled with a rich mixture of lean ground lamb, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. The creamy ricotta topping adds a luscious finish, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for a hearty dinner, this dish not only looks impressive but also brings comfort to the table. Plus, the homemade ricotta elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
eggplants
2 (Medium-sized, halved lengthwise)
kosher salt
as needed
olive oil
2 tablespoons plus extra for rubbing (For brushing and cooking)
lean ground lamb
3/4 lb (Fresh)
onion
1/2 (Diced)
garlic cloves
2 (Minced)
tomatoes
2 medium (Peeled, seeded, and diced)
green bell pepper
1 (Peeled, seeded, and diced)
ground cloves
3/4 teaspoon
cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon
ground cumin
3/4 teaspoon
cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon
fresh ricotta
1 3/4 cups (Divided: 1/2 cup for filling, 1 1/3 cups for topping)
fresh ground pepper
to taste
nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon (Freshly grated)
milk
1-2 tablespoons (For adjusting consistency)
parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (Grated)
fresh parsley
to garnish (Chopped)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Ricotta and Lamb-Stuffed Eggplant?
It is a Mediterranean-inspired dish where eggplant halves are filled with a seasoned lamb and vegetable mixture and finished with a creamy ricotta topping.
Is this recipe a variation of another dish?
Yes, it is described as a delightful twist on the classic Greek moussaka.
What type of meat is used in the filling?
The recipe calls for 3/4 lb of fresh lean ground lamb.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, the recipe tags indicate a vegetarian option is possible by substituting the lamb with a plant-based alternative.
How many eggplants do I need?
The recipe requires two medium-sized eggplants, halved lengthwise.
What spices give the lamb its aromatic flavor?
The lamb is seasoned with ground cloves, cinnamon, and ground cumin.
Is there any heat or spice in the recipe?
Yes, a small amount of cayenne pepper (1/8 teaspoon) is added for a subtle kick.
What goes into the ricotta topping?
The topping is made from fresh ricotta, freshly grated nutmeg, milk, and grated parmesan cheese.
How much ricotta is needed in total?
You will need 1 3/4 cups of fresh ricotta, divided between the filling and the topping.
What is the purpose of adding milk to the topping?
One to two tablespoons of milk are used to adjust the consistency of the ricotta topping.
Are the tomatoes prepared in a specific way?
Yes, the two medium tomatoes should be peeled, seeded, and diced before being added to the mixture.
What kind of pepper is used in the vegetable mix?
The recipe uses one green bell pepper that has been peeled, seeded, and diced.
How much garlic is included?
The recipe includes two minced garlic cloves.
What kind of oil is recommended?
Olive oil is used for both cooking the filling and rubbing/brushing the eggplants.
Is this considered a healthy dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy dinner and features fresh vegetables and lean protein.
Can I use store-bought ricotta?
While you can use store-bought, the recipe notes that homemade ricotta elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness.
What is used to garnish the finished dish?
Freshly chopped parsley is used as a garnish.
Does the recipe use parmesan cheese?
Yes, 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese is included in the topping.
Is nutmeg used in this recipe?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg is added to the ricotta topping.
How should the onion be prepared?
Half of an onion should be diced for the lamb mixture.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a one-dish meal, making it convenient for dinner.
How do the eggplants function in the dish?
Each half of the eggplant serves as a perfect vessel or boat to hold the lamb and ricotta mixture.
Is kosher salt required?
Yes, kosher salt is used as needed for seasoning the ingredients.
What is the texture of the topping?
The ricotta and parmesan topping creates a creamy and luscious finish.
What regional flavors does this dish represent?
The dish features Mediterranean flavors through the use of lamb, eggplant, olive oil, and warm spices.
Is there any black pepper in the recipe?
Yes, fresh ground pepper is added to taste.
What is the calorie count for this recipe?
The specific calorie count is not provided in the current recipe data.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While not explicitly stated, two medium eggplants halved usually provide four servings.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as comfort food.
Does the recipe require peeling the bell pepper?
Yes, the instructions for the green bell pepper specify that it should be peeled, seeded, and diced.