Discover how to make Makdous, a traditional Middle Eastern delicacy. This recipe features pickled eggplant stuffed with a flavorful mix of walnuts and garlic, delivering a tangy and savory treat that's perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Learn the step-by-step process to create this deliciously spiced and tangy pickled eggplant at home.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg small eggplants

- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 cup olive oil

- 2 teaspoons ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

- 1 cup white vinegar

- 2 teaspoons salt

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Prepare the Eggplants:

  - Wash and dry the eggplants. Cut off the stems and make a small slit along the side of each eggplant.

Blanch the Eggplants:

  - Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the eggplants and cook for 5 minutes to soften slightly. Remove with a slotted spoon and let them cool on a paper towel.

Prepare the Stuffing:

  - In a bowl, mix the chopped walnuts, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Stuff the Eggplants:

  - Gently open the slits in each eggplant and fill them with the walnut and garlic mixture. Press down firmly to pack the stuffing inside.

Pickle the Eggplants:

  - In a clean jar or container, arrange the stuffed eggplants tightly. Pour the vinegar and olive oil over the eggplants, ensuring they are completely covered. Seal the jar or container with a lid.

Marinate:

  - Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to develop. Shake the jar gently every few days to ensure even pickling.

Serve:

  - Once pickled, Makdous can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or added to various Middle Eastern dishes.

Enjoy your homemade Makdous!

Nutritional values

1 kg small eggplants

 - Calories: 250

 - Carbohydrates: 60g

 - Fiber: 20g

 - Protein: 5g

Benefits: Rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants (such as nasunin). Supports heart health, helps manage blood sugar levels, and promotes digestive health.

1 cup walnuts, finely chopped

 - Calories: 765

 - Protein: 18g

 - Fat: 76g (with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids)

 - Carbohydrates: 16g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin E. Supports heart health, brain function, and overall well-being.

4 cloves garlic, minced

 - Calories: 16

Benefits: Adds flavor and has potential health benefits, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

1 cup olive oil

 - Calories: 1,920

 - Fat: 220g (mostly monounsaturated fats)

Benefits: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. Supports heart health, has anti-inflammatory effects, and enhances flavor in dishes.

2 teaspoons ground cumin

 - Calories: 16

Benefits: Adds flavor and has antioxidant properties. May aid digestion and possess anti-inflammatory effects.

1 teaspoon ground coriander

 - Calories: 6

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants. May help with digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

 - Calories: 6

Benefits: Adds heat and flavor. Contains capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting and pain-relieving effects.

1 cup white vinegar

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Adds acidity and flavor. May help with digestion and can act as a preservative.

2 teaspoons salt

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

1 teaspoon black pepper

 - Calories: 6

Benefits: Contains piperine, which enhances nutrient absorption and has antioxidant properties. May aid digestion.

This dish features small eggplants as the base, providing fiber and antioxidants. Walnuts add healthy fats and protein, while olive oil contributes additional healthy fats and flavor. Garlic and spices like cumin, coriander, and red pepper flakes enhance the dish's taste and provide various health benefits. White vinegar adds acidity, which balances the flavors and can act as a preservative. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful and nutritious dish.