Indulge in the rich tapestry of Iranian cuisine with Khoresht-e Bademjan, a sumptuous stew that tantalizes the taste buds with its harmonious blend of flavors. This beloved dish features tender chunks of lamb or beef simmered to perfection alongside velvety eggplant and tangy tomatoes, creating a symphony of textures and aromas. With each spoonful, experience the warmth of Persian hospitality and the culinary heritage that has been passed down through generations. Whether enjoyed with steamed rice or traditional flatbread, Khoresht-e Bademjan offers a delicious glimpse into the heart of Iranian gastronomy.

Ingredients:

  - 2 medium-sized eggplants

  - 500g lamb or beef, cubed

  - 2 onions, finely chopped

  - 3 cloves garlic, minced

  - 4 tomatoes, diced

  - 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  - 1 teaspoon turmeric

  - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  - 1/2 teaspoon ground saffron (optional)

  - Salt and pepper to taste

  - Vegetable oil for frying

  - Water or broth

  - Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1- Peel the eggplants and cut them into thick slices. Sprinkle salt over the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out any bitterness. Rinse them well and pat dry with paper towels.

2- Heat some vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the skillet and drain excess oil on paper towels.

3- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and brown the cubed meat in batches. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.

4- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions until golden brown. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

5- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, turmeric, cinnamon, and ground saffron (if using). Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.

6- Return the browned meat to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the meat and vegetables.

7- Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender.

8- Once the meat is cooked, add the fried eggplant slices to the skillet. Gently stir to combine with the stew.

9- Allow the stew to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, uncovered, to let the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

10- Adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Khoresht-e Bademjan hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or Iranian flatbread.

Enjoy your flavorful and aromatic Khoresht-e Bademjan!

Nutritional Values :

2 Medium-Sized Eggplants:

 - Calories: About 40 kcal per eggplant

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Protein: 1g 

Benefits: Low in calories and high in fiber, which aids digestion. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

500g Lamb or Beef (cubed):

 - Calories: About 1000 kcal

 - Fat: 80g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 70g 

Benefits: High in protein and essential nutrients such as iron and zinc. Lamb provides more fat and flavor, while beef is leaner.

2 Onions (finely chopped):

 - Calories: About 80 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 20g

 - Protein: 2g 

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants and vitamins that support heart health.

3 Cloves Garlic (minced):

 - Calories: About 15 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Provides flavor and has antimicrobial properties.

4 Tomatoes (diced):

 - Calories: About 80 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 20g

 - Protein: 4g 

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants like lycopene, which support overall health.

2 Tablespoons Tomato Paste:

 - Calories: About 30 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

 - Protein: 1g 

Benefits: Concentrated flavor and nutrients, adding depth to the stew.

1 Teaspoon Turmeric:

 - Calories: About 4 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon:

 - Calories: About 6 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Adds flavor and has antioxidant properties.

1/2 Teaspoon Ground Saffron (optional):

 - Calories: About 3 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Adds a unique flavor and color, contains antioxidants that may boost mood.

Salt and Pepper (to taste):

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

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

Vegetable Oil (for frying):

 - Calories: About 120 kcal per tablespoon

 - Fat: 14g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Used for cooking and adds richness. Opt for heart-healthy oils like olive oil when possible.

Water or Broth (as needed):

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Adds moisture and helps in cooking. Broth adds additional flavor.

Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (for garnish):

 - Calories: About 5 kcal per tablespoon

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains vitamins and antioxidants.

These values are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as cooking methods and specific brands of ingredients used.