Mirza Ghasemi, a delectable Persian eggplant dish, is a popular appetizer from Northern Iran, particularly the Gilan province. This smoky, garlic-infused eggplant dip is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, often served with flatbread or rice. Follow this guide to recreate this vegetarian delight in your kitchen.
Contents
Ingredients
- Eggplants, large – 3
- Garlic cloves, finely minced – 5
- Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
- Fresh tomatoes, diced – 3
- Eggs – 3
- Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Skillet or frying pan
Roasting the Eggplants
- Prepare Eggplants: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Pierce the eggplants with a fork and place them on a baking sheet.
- Roast: Roast the eggplants in the oven until their skin is charred and the inside is soft, about 30-40 minutes. Turn them occasionally for even cooking.
- Peel and Mash: Once cooled, peel the eggplants and mash the flesh.
Cooking the Dish
- Sauté Garlic: Heat oil in a skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté until golden.
- Add Eggplants and Tomatoes: Mix in the mashed eggplant, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook over medium heat until the tomatoes soften.
- Season: Add turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add Eggs: Crack the eggs directly into the pan. Stir gently to mix the eggs with the eggplant mixture until they are cooked.
Serving Mirza Ghasemi
- Serve Hot: Serve Mirza Ghasemi hot as an appetizer with flatbread or as a side dish with rice.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sumac for an added flavor.
Tips for Perfect Mirza Ghasemi
- Roasting Eggplants: The key to Mirza Ghasemi’s unique flavor is the smokiness of roasted eggplants. Ensure they are well-roasted for that authentic taste.
- Garlic Flavor: Don’t shy away from garlic; it’s a central component of this dish.
- Consistency: The final dish should have a thick, dip-like consistency.
Mirza Ghasemi offers a taste of Northern Iran’s rich culinary traditions. Its smoky flavor and easy preparation make it a favorite among vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. To explore more about Persian cuisine, visit 10 Best Persian Foods to Try.
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