Discover how to make Makdous, a traditional Middle Eastern delicacy of pickled eggplants stuffed with a flavorful mixture of walnuts, garlic, and red pepper. This step-by-step recipe will guide you through preparing this delicious and tangy appetizer, perfect for serving at any meal or as a unique addition to your next gathering. Learn the secrets to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this classic recipe.

Ingredients:

- 12 small eggplants

- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

- 1 teaspoon salt (plus extra for eggplants)

- 1 cup olive oil

- 2 tablespoons white vinegar

- 1 cup water

Instructions:

Prepare the Eggplants:

  - Wash and trim the stems from the eggplants. 

  - Make a lengthwise slit in each eggplant, being careful not to cut all the way through.

  - Sprinkle salt inside the slits and place the eggplants in a colander. Let them sit for 1 hour to allow the salt to draw out excess moisture.

Prepare the Stuffing:

  - In a bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, minced garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, coriander, red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon of salt. 

Stuff the Eggplants:

  - Rinse the salted eggplants under cold water and gently pat dry with a paper towel.

  - Carefully stuff each eggplant with the walnut mixture, packing it tightly.

Pickling Process:

  - In a large pot, combine olive oil, white vinegar, and water. Heat until it begins to simmer.

  - Carefully place the stuffed eggplants in the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender.

Cool and Store:

  - Remove the eggplants from the pot and allow them to cool to room temperature.

  - Transfer the eggplants to a clean jar, packing them tightly. Pour the pickling liquid over the eggplants to cover them completely.

Let It Pickle:

  - Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to develop. 

Notes:

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.

- Makdous can be enjoyed as a standalone appetizer or served alongside bread, cheese, and olives.

Nutritional Values

For the Eggplant Dish:

Eggplants (12 small, ~600g)

- Calories: ~25

- Protein: ~1g

- Fat: ~0.2g

- Carbohydrates: ~6g

- Fiber: ~3g

Benefits:

- Low in calories and high in fiber.

- Contains antioxidants, such as nasunin, which is beneficial for heart health.

Walnuts (1 cup, ~120g)

- Calories: ~654

- Protein: ~15g

- Fat: ~65g (primarily healthy fats)

- Carbohydrates: ~14g

- Fiber: ~7g

Benefits:

- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.

- Supports heart health and brain function.

Garlic (4 cloves, ~12g)

- Calories: ~149

- Protein: ~6g

- Fat: ~0.5g

- Carbohydrates: ~33g

Benefits:Provides flavor and potential health benefits, including immune support and anti-inflammatory properties.

Red Bell Pepper (1, ~150g)

- Calories: ~31

- Protein: ~1g

- Fat: ~0.3g

- Carbohydrates: ~6g

- Fiber: ~2g

Benefits:

- High in vitamins A and C.

- Contains antioxidants that support overall health.

Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon, ~2g)

- Calories: ~375

- Protein: ~18g

- Fat: ~22g

- Carbohydrates: ~44g

Benefits:

- Adds a warm, earthy flavor.

- Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

Ground Coriander (1 teaspoon, ~2g)

- Calories: ~298

- Protein: ~12g

- Fat: ~17g

- Carbohydrates: ~55g

Benefits:

- Adds a citrusy, warm flavor.

- Contains vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants.

Red Pepper Flakes (1 teaspoon, ~1g)

- Calories: ~318

- Protein: ~12g

- Fat: ~14g

- Carbohydrates: ~58g

Benefits:

- Adds heat and flavor.

- Contains capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting effects.

Salt (1 teaspoon, ~6g)

- Calories: ~0

- Protein: ~0g

- Fat: ~0g

- Carbohydrates: ~0g

Benefits:Enhances flavor; use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Olive Oil (1 cup, ~240ml)

- Calories: ~884

- Protein: ~0g

- Fat: ~100g

- Carbohydrates: ~0g

Benefits:

- Provides healthy fats and antioxidants.

- Supports heart health and overall wellness.

White Vinegar (2 tablespoons, ~30ml)

- Calories: ~21

- Protein: ~0g

- Fat: ~0g

- Carbohydrates: ~0g

Benefits:

- Adds acidity and flavor.

- Can aid in digestion and enhance taste.

Water (1 cup, ~240ml)

- Calories: ~0

- Protein: ~0g

- Fat: ~0g

- Carbohydrates: ~0g

Benefits:Essential for cooking and maintaining hydration.

This combination of ingredients creates a flavorful dish with numerous health benefits. Enjoy preparing and savoring your meal!