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Amal

My Italian Mom's Eggplant Delight That Conquered the World

This hearty and flavorful eggplant dish is a true family favorite, inspired by my Italian mother’s kitchen. Combining tender eggplant, savory ham, mushrooms, and a rich egg custard, it’s the perfect balance of comforting and nutritious. Whether served as a main course or a side, this dish is simple to prepare and bursting with classic Mediterranean flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 –6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 eggplants
  • 1 bell pepper
  • 1 onion
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • 120 g 4 ½ oz cooked ham, diced
  • 4 eggs
  • 150 g 5 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 100 ml ½ cup kefir or milk
  • 30 g 1 oz Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Butter for greasing
  • Breadcrumbs for coating
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Prepare the Vegetables:
  1. Dice the eggplants, bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms.
  2. Mince the garlic.
Sauté the Ingredients:
  1. Heat a bit of butter in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the bell pepper, eggplants, and mushrooms. Cook until tender.
Add the Ham and Seasoning:
  1. Mix in the diced ham and cook for another few minutes.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
  1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with kefir (or milk) and grated Parmesan.
Assemble and Bake:
  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Grease a baking dish with butter and coat it lightly with breadcrumbs.
  3. Spread the sautéed mixture evenly in the dish.
  4. Pour the egg mixture over the top.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Serve and Enjoy:
  1. Let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm as a main dish or a delicious side.

Notes

  • Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the ham or replace it with roasted red peppers or spinach.
  • Cheese variations: Try adding ricotta or mozzarella for a creamier texture, or pecorino for extra sharpness.
  • Storage tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
  • Freezing: This dish freezes well! Cool completely, wrap tightly, and store for up to 2 months.