Eggplant appetizer imam-bayaldy
4 servings
25 minutes
Imam bayildi is a famous dish of Turkish cuisine infused with the aromas of Eastern spices. The name translates to 'the imam fainted,' and legend has it that he lost consciousness from the delight of its taste. Tender eggplants soaked in tomato sauce with onions, garlic, and olive oil create a harmony of sweet and spicy notes. The heat of chili peppers adds zest while green onions refresh the flavor. This dish is perfect as a cold appetizer, revealing even more over time, as well as a side dish for meat or fish. It is prepared for festive and family gatherings to enjoy the rich bouquet of flavors. Imam bayildi is not just an appetizer but a true culinary masterpiece that conveys the spirit and passion of Turkish gastronomy.
1
Pour boiling water over the tomatoes.
- Tomatoes: 2 pieces
2
After 2 minutes, drain the water and fill with cold water.
3
Peel the tomatoes, and clean the onion and garlic.
- Tomatoes: 2 pieces
- Onion: 1 head
- Garlic: 2 cloves
4
Cut the tomato into small cubes. Chop the onion and garlic coarsely.
- Tomatoes: 2 pieces
- Onion: 1 head
- Garlic: 2 cloves
5
Send the vegetables to the heated olive oil (1.5 tbsp) in the pan.
- Olive oil: 5 tablespoon
- Tomatoes: 2 pieces
- Onion: 1 head
6
After 4 minutes, reduce the heat, add pepper and finely chopped green onion. Add salt and mix.
- Sea salt: to taste
- Green onion tops (scallion greens): 3 pieces
7
After another 3-4 minutes, add garlic pressed through a garlic press and finely chopped chili pepper. After a couple of minutes, remove from heat.
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Chili pepper: 2 g
8
Slice the eggplants about 7 mm thick.
- Eggplant: 2 pieces
9
Pour oil with a pinch of coarse salt into a heated frying pan.
- Olive oil: 5 tablespoon
- Coarse sea salt: pinch
10
Once the bottom side is nicely browned, flip it.
11
After a couple of minutes, reduce the heat and cover with a lid.
12
After 3-5 minutes, remove from heat and transfer to a deep container.
13
Pour with tomato sauce.
- Tomatoes: 2 pieces
14
Mix and transfer to a glass jar.
