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Kufta bil batinjal Traditional Kufta bil batinjal Libyan Dish
Kufta bil Batinjal is a traditional Libyan dish. Its name means “meatballs with eggplant.” The dish features spiced meatballs (Kufta) cooked with roasted eggplant slices. These ingredients are often simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish is a staple in Libyan cuisine. It showcases the region’s love for simple, earthy ingredients. Kufta bil Batinjal transforms these ingredients into a comforting meal. It highlights the robust flavours typical of North African and Mediterranean cuisine.
Kufta bil batinjal Libyan Dish Recipe
Ingredients:
Meatballs (Kufta):
Ground beef or lamb
Onion (finely chopped)
Garlic
Fresh parsley or coriander
Spices: cumin, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper
Batinjal (Eggplant):
Eggplants (sliced and roasted or fried)
Tomato Sauce:
Tomatoes (fresh or canned)
Tomato paste
Onion
Garlic
Spices: cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon
Olive oil
Preparation:
Kufta (Meatballs): Begin the kufta mixture with ground meat, usually beef or lamb. Season the meat with garlic, finely chopped onion, fresh herbs like parsley or coriander, and a blend of fragrant spices such as cumin, cinnamon, and paprika. After mixing, shape the meat into small meatballs and either grill or pan-fry them until they turn golden brown.
Batinjal (Eggplant): Slice the eggplants into rounds or long strips, then fry or roast them until they become tender and slightly caramelized, which enhances their natural sweetness.
Tomato Sauce: To make the sauce, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until they soften. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices to create a rich, flavorful base for the dish.
Once the tomato sauce is ready, combine the cooked kufta and eggplant with the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together. Simmer the mixture until everything becomes tender and infused with aromatic spices. Serve Kufta bil Batinjal with rice or flatbread for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Serving
Typically, people serve this dish with rice or flatbread, providing a hearty, flavorful meal. Many Libyan households cherish this dish, showcasing the region’s love for merging simple, wholesome ingredients with aromatic spices. This Libyan classic exemplifies the country’s culinary traditions, blending straightforward ingredients with bold, rich flavors.
