🇹🇷 Turkey · Food
Patlıcan Kebabı (Eggplant and Meatball Kebab)
By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
Patlıcan Kebabı is a flavorful and visually appealing dish where slices of tender eggplant are artfully layered with seasoned ground meat patties (köfte). Baked in a rich tomato sauce, this classic Turkish main course offers a delightful combination of smoky eggplant and juicy meat, embodying the vibrant culinary traditions of the Southeast.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare the Eggplant (10 minutes): Wash 2 large (about 700-800g total) eggplants and slice them into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick rounds. You can leave the skin on for a rustic look or peel it partially in stripes. Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, sprinkle lightly with 1 teaspoon salt, and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Gently blot with paper towels before proceeding to reduce bitterness and absorb less oil during cooking.
- 2
Make the Meatball Mixture (10 minutes): In a large bowl, combine 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef or lamb (or a mix), 1 finely grated small onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1.5 teaspoons salt. Knead the mixture thoroughly for 5-7 minutes until well combined and slightly sticky – this helps the meatballs hold their shape beautifully. Form into small, flat patties slightly smaller than your eggplant slices.
- 3
Assemble the Kebab (15 minutes): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large, oven-safe baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches or 23x33 cm), arrange alternating slices of eggplant and meatball patties in a spiral or straight rows. You want them nestled closely together. This artistic arrangement is part of the charm of Patlıcan Kebabı!
- 4
Prepare the Sauce and Bake (5 minutes prep, 45-60 minutes bake): In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240ml) hot water, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth. Pour this sauce evenly over the assembled kebab. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. The foil helps steam the eggplant and meatballs, ensuring they cook through evenly.
- 5
Add Vegetables and Finish Baking (20-30 minutes): After 30 minutes, remove the foil. Arrange sliced tomatoes and green bell peppers over the kebab for extra flavor and color. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15-30 minutes, or until the eggplant is very tender, the meatballs are cooked through, and the sauce has thickened slightly and is bubbling beautifully. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
- 6
Rest and Serve (5 minutes): Once baked, remove the Patlıcan Kebabı from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest allows the flavors to meld and the juices to settle. Serve hot, perhaps with a side of fluffy rice or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy this comforting and hearty meal!
- 7
Optional Garnish: Before serving, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley can add a lovely touch of color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation and aroma. Don't underestimate the power of a simple garnish to elevate your dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I salt the eggplant before cooking, and why?+
Yes, salting the eggplant slices for about 30 minutes before patting them dry helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a more tender and less oily final dish.
What type of ground meat is best for the meatballs (köfte) in Patlıcan Kebabı?+
For traditional Patlıcan Kebabı, ground lamb or a mix of ground beef and lamb is ideal. The higher fat content contributes to juicier, more flavorful meatballs.
How can I tell when the Patlıcan Kebabı is perfectly cooked, with tender eggplant and juicy meatballs?+
The dish is ready when the eggplant is very tender and easily pierced with a fork, the meatballs are cooked through and browned, and the sauce is bubbling and slightly thickened.
How can I prevent the meatballs from drying out during baking while ensuring the eggplant is fully cooked?+
Ensure the meatballs are mixed with some moisture (like grated onion or a splash of water) and bake the dish covered for most of the cooking time, uncovering only for the last 15-20 minutes to brown.
Mundo Match
Dishes across the world that share Patlıcan Kebabı (Eggplant and Meatball Kebab)'s core ingredients.
See all 13 matches ↓
