Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a perfect blend of hearty beef and the soft, smoky flavor of eggplant. The spiced beef mixture adds a kick of heat and richness, while the eggplant serves as a tender, slightly smoky wrap for the filling. These rolls are versatile, easily customizable to your spice preference, and packed with flavor. They are perfect for anyone who enjoys a satisfying and bold dish that’s both comforting and slightly exotic. Plus, they make an impressive meal for guests and are great for meal prepping!

Ingredients

  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into thin strips

  • 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for heat)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  2. Slice the eggplant lengthwise into thin strips. Lay them on the baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

  3. While the eggplant slices are roasting, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

  4. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  5. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

  6. Stir in the soy sauce, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

  7. Once the eggplant strips are cool enough to handle, place a spoonful of the spiced beef mixture at the wide end of each strip. Gently roll up the eggplant to form a tight roll.

  8. Place the rolled eggplant pieces seam side down on the baking sheet. Once all rolls are assembled, bake in the oven for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the rolls are heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.

  9. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Optionally, add crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6 servings

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 30 minutes

  • Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian option: Use a plant-based protein or lentils in place of the ground beef for a vegetarian version of this dish.

  • Cheese: Swap feta with goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

  • Heat level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers to suit your desired spice level.

  • Herbs: Add a pinch of dried oregano or thyme to the beef mixture for an extra depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 2-3 minutes, though the texture may not be as crisp.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different meat for the filling?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or lamb in place of beef. Each option will bring its own unique flavor to the dish.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the eggplant rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. This can help the flavors develop even more.

3. Can I grill the eggplant instead of roasting it?

Yes, grilling the eggplant slices would add a nice smoky flavor to the dish. Just be sure to lightly oil and season the eggplant before grilling.

4. Can I freeze these rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled eggplant rolls before baking. To freeze, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag or container. To cook from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

5. Can I add cheese to the beef mixture?

Yes, you can add grated cheese such as Parmesan or mozzarella to the beef mixture for extra flavor.

6. What can I serve with these rolls?

These rolls pair well with a side of couscous, quinoa, or a fresh Mediterranean salad. You could also serve them with a tangy yogurt sauce or hummus for dipping.

Conclusion

Spicy Beef Eggplant Rolls are a flavorful and satisfying dish that blends tender eggplant with spiced beef filling. The crispy edges and smoky flavor of the eggplant, combined with the savory beef and aromatic spices, make for a delicious and versatile dish. Whether enjoyed as a main meal or an appetizer, these rolls will bring a burst of flavor to your table that’s sure to be loved by all!

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Spicy Beef Eggplant Rolls

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Main Course, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking, Roasting
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

Spicy Beef Eggplant Rolls are savory rolls made with tender eggplant wrapped around a spiced beef filling. These rolls are packed with flavor from cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes, offering a rich, smoky taste perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
  • 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Slice the eggplant lengthwise into thin strips. Lay them on the baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
  3. While the eggplant slices are roasting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the soy sauce, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
  6. Once the eggplant strips are cool enough to handle, place a spoonful of the beef mixture at the wide end of each strip. Roll up tightly to form rolls.
  7. Place the rolls seam side down on the baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
  8. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro, and squeeze lemon juice over the rolls. Optionally, add crumbled feta cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Notes

These rolls can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based protein or lentils.For an extra layer of flavor, you can add cheese to the beef mixture, such as Parmesan or mozzarella.Grilled eggplant can be used for a smoky flavor instead of roasting.Store leftover rolls in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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