**Roasted Eggplant Caviar: A Culinary Journey of Smoky Flavors and Creamy Textures**
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with our roasted eggplant caviar, a tantalizing dish that captivates the senses with its smoky, rich flavors and velvety-smooth texture. This versatile appetizer or side dish is a celebration of eggplant's versatility, elevating it from a humble vegetable to a culinary masterpiece. Discover the art of roasting eggplants to perfection, resulting in a smoky, caramelized exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. With just a few simple steps, you'll transform eggplants into a creamy, addictive spread that can be enjoyed on its own, as a dip, or as a sandwich filling. From classic eggplant caviar to variations featuring roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs, our collection of recipes offers a symphony of flavors to suit every palate. Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.
ROASTED BABY POTATOES WITH EGGPLANT CAVIAR AND CREME FRAICHE
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Set a cooling rack into a baking sheet.
- Halve the eggplant lengthwise and score the flesh by making three long cuts down the middle and sides, making sure not to pierce the skin. Salt the eggplant and then place it
- cut-side down on the prepared cooling rack for 30 minutes to release moisture.
- Turn the eggplant over and remove the cooling rack. Using paper towels, dry the eggplant and the baking sheet of any moisture. Cut the eggplant into 1-inch cubes and place back on the baking sheet. Scatter the garlic cloves among the eggplant. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with the smoked paprika and some salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Roast until the eggplant is completely soft and browned, about 30 minutes. Let cool.
- Increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees F.
- Lightly oil a baking sheet. Toss the potatoes in a medium bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt and some pepper. Place the potatoes cut-side down on the oiled baking sheet and roast until tender, 13 to 15 minutes. Let cool.
- Scrape the cooled eggplant into the bowl of a food processor and squeeze the roasted garlic out of its peels into the food processor. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, mint and the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and puree until smooth. Add the shallot and tomato and pulse to combine. Season with salt and pepper, if necessary.
- To serve, scoop out a cavity in each potato half with a paring knife or small spoon. Fill with the "eggplant caviar" and top with a dollop of creme fraiche and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds.
ROASTED EGGPLANT CAVIAR
Takes a little time but well worth it. Serve with pumpernickel bread and cut-up vegetables or with crackers.
Provided by Gene Payne
Categories Appetizers and Snacks Dips and Spreads Recipes
Time 1h20m
Yield 12
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Place eggplant on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil; prick all over with a fork.
- Roast eggplant in the preheated oven until very tender, 50 to 60 minutes. Let cool until easily handled, about 10 minutes.
- Halve eggplant lengthwise and scrape out the flesh; discard skin. Chop flesh finely and transfer to a large bowl. Add onion, 2 tablespoons parsley, olive oil, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper; mix to combine. Garnish with remaining 1 tablespoon parsley.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 34.1 calories, Carbohydrate 3.8 g, Cholesterol 0.4 mg, Fat 2.2 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 0.7 g, SaturatedFat 0.3 g, Sodium 88.4 mg, Sugar 1.5 g
Tips:
- Choose the right eggplant: Look for eggplants that are firm and heavy for their size, with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid eggplants that are too soft or have wrinkles, as these are signs of old age and bitterness.
- Roast the eggplant properly: Roasting the eggplant brings out its natural sweetness and smoky flavor. To ensure even cooking, pierce the eggplant all over with a fork before roasting. Roast the eggplant at a high temperature (400°F or 200°C) until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft and tender.
- Let the eggplant cool completely: Once the eggplant is roasted, let it cool completely before handling it. This will make it easier to peel and chop the eggplant without it falling apart.
- Use a food processor or blender: To make the eggplant caviar, you can use a food processor or a blender. If using a food processor, pulse the eggplant until it is finely chopped. If using a blender, blend the eggplant until it is smooth.
- Season to taste: Once the eggplant caviar is made, season it to taste with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as garlic, cumin, or paprika, to taste.
Conclusion:
Roasted eggplant caviar is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a dip, spread, or condiment. It is also a great way to use up leftover roasted eggplant. With its smoky flavor and creamy texture, eggplant caviar is sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering.
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