Iraqi Tebsi (Baked Eggplant Casserole)

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Iraqi Tebsi (Baked Eggplant Casserole)

Tebsi Badhinjan is one of the most famous traditional dishes in Iraqi cuisine. Widely popular across Mesopotamia, it later spread to neighboring countries, where each region gave it a local twist and a different name—such as Siniyet Badhinjan (eggplant tray) in the Levant or Manzala in Syria. Despite small variations, the core ingredients remain the same.

This dish is deeply rooted in culinary tradition, dating back to ancient times. It is considered a hearty, nutritious, and affordable meal since its ingredients are widely available and inexpensive.

Nutritionally, Tebsi is a balanced dish. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and proteins, it supports digestion due to its high fiber content, helps prevent constipation, boosts blood health thanks to iron-rich vegetables, and provides antioxidants that help protect against clots and heart disease.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

Iraqi Tebsi (Baked Eggplant Casserole)

 

  • 3 eggplants, sliced into rings

  • 2 tomatoes, sliced into rounds

  • 1 onion, sliced

  • 1 potato, sliced into rounds

  • 1 green pepper (mild or hot, as preferred), sliced into rings

  • ½ tablespoon pomegranate molasses

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 1 cup water

  • 2 tablespoons celery

  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint

  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil

  • 1 teaspoon mixed spices

  • 1 teaspoon sumac

  • Salt, to taste

Method:

  1. Begin by frying the eggplant slices in oil until golden, then set aside.

  2. Lightly fry the onion slices until softened, then remove and set aside.

  3. Fry the potato slices, tomato slices, and green pepper slices separately, then combine all the fried vegetables together in a large bowl.

  4. Add the mint, celery, and basil, mixing well until everything is evenly combined.

  5. Transfer the mixture into a baking tray, spreading the vegetables evenly.

  6. In a small bowl, mix together the spices, salt, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, sumac, pomegranate molasses, and lemon juice. Pour this sauce evenly over the vegetables in the tray.

  7. Add the cup of water, then place the tray in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 30 minutes.

  8. Remove from the oven, transfer to serving dishes, and serve hot.

Tebsi can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside rice, depending on preference.

A rich blend of fried vegetables, fresh herbs, and a tangy sauce, Iraqi Tebsi is a dish that combines tradition, nutrition, and irresistible flavor in every bite.

Enjoy! 🍆✨

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