Aleppian-Style Eggplant Kebab – A Traditional Syrian Recipe

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Aleppian-Style Eggplant Kebab – A Traditional Syrian Recipe

Aleppian Eggplant Kebab is one of the most famous grilled dishes from Aleppo, Syria. Known for its rich flavors and high nutritional value, this dish combines succulent lamb, smoky eggplant, and aromatic spices, making it a favorite at family gatherings and special occasions.

Eggplant is a great source of magnesium, potassium, and folic acid, while lamb meat provides essential proteins and iron, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients for Aleppian Eggplant Kebab:

Aleppian-Style Eggplant Kebab

 

For the Kebab Meat:

  • 1 kg finely ground lamb
  • 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
  • 1 large onion
  • 5 garlic cloves
  • 5 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon mixed spices
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce & Assembly:

  • 4 medium eggplants
  • 1 medium tomato
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon mixed spices
  • 1 tablespoon ghee or butter

How to Prepare Aleppian Eggplant Kebab:

1. Preparing the Eggplant:

  1. Wash and peel the eggplants, then cut them into round slices.
  2. Lightly fry the eggplant slices in oil until they turn golden brown, but not fully cooked.
  3. Drain on a paper towel and set aside.

2. Preparing the Kebab Mixture:

  1. In a large bowl, mix the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, spices, and black pepper.
  2. In a separate bowl, mash the onion and garlic together, then add them to the lamb mixture.
  3. Knead the mixture until you get a firm and cohesive kebab dough.
  4. Shape the mixture into small balls or cylindrical kebabs, based on preference.

3. Assembling the Kebab Skewers:

  1. Take metal or wooden skewers and start layering:
    • 1 kebab ball, followed by 1 fried eggplant slice, then repeat the pattern until the skewer is filled.
  2. Continue the process until all the kebab mixture and eggplant slices are used.

4. Preparing the Sauce:

  1. In a bowl, mix water, tomato paste, ghee, and mixed spices until well combined.

5. Cooking the Kebab in the Oven:

  1. Place the kebab skewers in a rectangular oven tray in an orderly fashion.
  2. Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the skewers.
  3. Preheat the oven to medium heat (180°C / 350°F).
  4. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the kebab is fully cooked.

6. Serving the Kebab:

  1. Remove from the oven and transfer the kebab skewers to a serving plate.
  2. Pour some of the rich tomato sauce over the kebabs.
  3. Serve hot with Arabic bread, rice, or a fresh salad.

Enjoy this authentic Aleppian dish, filled with bold flavors and rich textures! Sahtein! 🍢🔥

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