Karniyarik

Karniyarik – delicious Turkish stuffed eggplants
Turkey
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Karniyarik, meaning 'split belly' in Turkish, is a beloved dish featuring eggplants stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground meat and vegetables. This dish holds cultural significance in Turkey, often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region. It exemplifies the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients typical in Turkish cuisine.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggplants
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or lamb
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 green bell peppers, sliced (for garnish)
  • 2 tomatoes, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplants

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cut a slit lengthwise in each eggplant, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Fry the eggplants on all sides until they are golden brown and softened. Remove and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Prepare the Filling

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and ground cumin. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.

Stuff the Eggplants

Carefully open the slit in each eggplant and stuff them with the meat mixture.

Place the stuffed eggplants in a baking dish.

Garnish and Bake

Place a slice of green bell pepper and a slice of tomato on top of each stuffed eggplant.

Pour 1 cup of water into the baking dish around the eggplants.

Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the eggplants are tender and the flavors have melded.

Serve

Serve the Karnıyarık hot with rice or bulgur pilaf.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Karniyarik?

Karniyarik is a traditional Turkish dish consisting of eggplants that are split and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, onions, and tomatoes.

Where does Karniyarik come from?

Karniyarik originates from Turkey, where it is widely enjoyed in various regional cuisines.

What are the main ingredients in Karniyarik?

Key ingredients include eggplants, ground beef or lamb, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil.

How long does Karniyarik take to make?

It takes approximately 60-75 minutes to prepare and cook Karniyarik.

What do you serve with Karniyarik?

Karniyarik is often served with rice or bulgur and a side salad for a complete meal.