Eggplant Spread (Baklazhannaia Ikra)

This eggplant spread recipe, also known as Baklazhannaia Ikra, is a savory, healthy dip made with roasted eggplant, bell peppers, carrots, onions, and tomatoes. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful dish perfect for serving as a side, spread, or appetizer. This Mediterranean-inspired spread is packed with vegetables and spices, making it a nutritious option for various meals. Ideal for pairing with crusty bread, crackers, or roasted vegetables, this eggplant spread is a versatile and flavorful addition to your recipe collection. Perfect for vegetarians, vegan diets, and those looking for a healthy alternative to traditional spreads.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs eggplant, peeled and diced
• 2 bell peppers (preferably red, yellow, or orange), diced
• 2-3 medium carrots, grated
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
• Canola oil or extra light olive oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. Cook the Eggplant:
   • Heat 3-4 tablespoons of oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced eggplant and sauté, stirring occasionally until the eggplant softens and releases moisture, about 15-20 minutes. Add more oil as needed to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Vegetable Mixture:
   • In a separate large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell pepper, grated carrots, and finely diced onion. Sauté for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are golden and softened.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • Once the eggplant is softened, add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the eggplant pan. Stir well to combine.
4. Add Tomatoes and Simmer:
   • Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and season with 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of black pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The spread is ready when there is no liquid left, and the mixture has a spreadable, chunky consistency.
5. Serve:
   • Let the spread cool slightly before serving with crusty bread or as a flavorful dip.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Rich Flavor: The combination of eggplant, peppers, carrots, and tomatoes creates a depth of flavor that makes this spread irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving as a dip with bread, crackers, or as a topping for meats or roasted vegetables.
• Simple to Make: With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is a great way to add flavor to any meal.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables, this spread is a nutritious and low-calorie choice for any occasion.

Tips:

• Adjust the Consistency: If the mixture is too runny after simmering, you can continue to cook it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
• Oil Options: Use light olive oil or canola oil for a milder flavor, but feel free to use extra virgin olive oil if you prefer a stronger taste.
• Fresh Tomatoes: Using fresh tomatoes gives the spread a vibrant, fresh flavor, but canned tomatoes can also be substituted in a pinch.
• Storage: The spread can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, and it can also be frozen for up to three months.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Herbs: Add fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spices: For a spicier version, consider adding chili flakes, paprika, or ground cumin.
• Roasted Garlic: Roast a few cloves of garlic and add them to the spread for a richer, more aromatic flavor.
• Vegan Version: This recipe is naturally vegan, but you can make it even richer by adding a spoonful of tahini or olive tapenade for extra creaminess.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but fresh vegetables will give a more vibrant texture and flavor.

2. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, this eggplant spread can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will deepen as it sits.

3. What else can I use this spread for? It’s delicious as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for grilled meats and fish. You can also serve it with roasted or grilled vegetables.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with warm, crusty bread or pita for a tasty appetizer or snack.
• Pair with roasted meats, especially lamb or chicken, for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• Use it as a topping for grilled fish or as a side dish for a flavorful vegetable platter.
• Serve with crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for a healthy dip option.