Gluten-Free Hünkar Beğendi

Gluten-Free Hünkar Beğendi is a flavorful Turkish dish featuring tender meat served over a creamy, smoky eggplant puree. This unique combination offers a rich taste and a delightful texture, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

• Eggplant - 2 medium (about 300g)
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ground lamb or beef - 300g
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Tomato paste - 1 tablespoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Gluten-free pasta - 150g (penne or fusilli)
• Milk - 100ml
• Cheddar cheese - 50g, grated
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and roast for 25-30 minutes until soft and slightly charred.
3. While the eggplants are roasting, cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in the ground lamb or beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
7. Mix in the tomato paste, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Remove the roasted eggplants from the oven, scoop out the flesh, and place it in a bowl. Mash the eggplant with a fork and add milk, grated cheddar cheese, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.
9. To serve, place the creamy eggplant puree on a plate, top with the cooked ground meat mixture, and serve alongside the gluten-free pasta.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 600
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbs: 50 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Total Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 25 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle health and repair.
• Rich in fiber from eggplants, promoting digestive health.

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