Savor Stuffed Baby Aubergines: Fatteh Makdous's Tangy Temptation

Fatteh Makdous: Savoring Stuffed Baby Aubergines in a Tangy Tomato Tahini Sauce

Fatteh Makdous, a tantalizing Levantine dish, tantalizes taste buds with its medley of flavors and textures. This culinary masterpiece features baby aubergines stuffed with seasoned lamb, enveloped in a vibrant tomato sauce and crowned with a silky tahini dressing.

Ingredients:

For the Stuffed Aubergines:

* 12 small baby aubergines
* 500g ground lamb
* 1 onion, finely chopped
* 1 garlic clove, minced
* 1 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1 teaspoon ground coriander
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup olive oil

For the Tomato Sauce:

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
* 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tahini Dressing:

* 1/2 cup tahini
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* 1/4 cup water
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Aubergines: Cut off the tops of the aubergines and hollow out the flesh, leaving a thin shell. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Stuff the Aubergines: In a bowl, combine the ground lamb, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well and stuff the aubergine shells with the lamb mixture.
3. Cook the Aubergines: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the aubergines with olive oil and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until tender.
4. Make the Tomato Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, cumin, coriander, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Make the Tahini Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, water, garlic, and salt. Adjust the consistency with additional water as needed.
6. Assemble the Fatteh: In a large serving bowl, layer the tomato sauce, stuffed aubergines, and tahini dressing. Garnish with fresh mint and parsley, if desired.

Tips:

* For a richer flavor, marinate the lamb mixture overnight in the refrigerator.
* Use different herbs and spices to customize the tomato sauce to your taste.
* Serve the Fatteh Makdous with pita bread or rice for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

Fatteh Makdous is a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures. The tender, flavorful lamb-stuffed aubergines, bathed in a tangy tomato sauce and crowned with a creamy tahini dressing, create an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, this Levantine delight will undoubtedly satisfy your cravings.