Enhanced Recipesculinary collection
Home
CoursesView CuisinesWhat Can I Make?My Kitchen

Makdus - Baby Eggplant Appetizer (Makdous مكدوس)

Login to Save
BecomeInspired
BecomeInspired
8 recipes on Enhanced Recipes
Follow BecomeInspired to prioritize their recipes in your meal plans, pantry matches, and suggestions

Recipe Information

Recipe Available
Video-Specific Recipe

Makdus

Cultural Context

Originating from Syria, Makdus is a traditional dish made of eggplants stuffed with a flavorful walnut mixture. It is often enjoyed as a side dish or appetizer, particularly during festive occasions. The preparation of Makdus is a communal activity, symbolizing hospitality and sharing among families. Today, this dish has gained popularity beyond the Middle East, with variations appearing in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines worldwide.

SyrianSYside
120 min
medium
4 servings
Servings4
small eggplants
1/4 cup chopped garlic
1 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
salt
olive oil

walnuts

🥗Healthier: almonds

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Almonds provide healthy fats while being a cost-effective alternative.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil offers similar health benefits with a neutral flavor.

red pepper flakes

🥗Healthier: fresh chili

💰Cheaper: paprika

Fresh chili adds flavor without the cost of dried spices.

vinegar

🥗Healthier: lemon juice

💰Cheaper: apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is often less expensive and adds a tangy flavor.

1

Cut the tops off the small eggplants, leaving the green parts intact.

2

Boil the eggplants in water for about 5 minutes until soft.

3

Transfer the eggplants to cold water to stop the cooking process.

4

Slice the eggplants lengthwise and rub salt inside to draw out water and bitterness.

5

Place the salted eggplants upside down with a heavy plate on top to drain for 3 days.

6

Prepare stuffing by mixing 1/4 cup chopped garlic, 1 cup chopped walnuts, and 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper.

7

Stuff the eggplants with the walnut mixture, pressing tightly to fill them.

8

Place the stuffed eggplants sideways in a jar, ensuring they are tightly packed.

9

Cover the eggplants with olive oil, ensuring they are submerged.

10

Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 2 weeks before consuming.

Cooking Techniques

blanchingstuffingpickling

Equipment Needed

large potcutting boardknifejar for pickling

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Dietary

vegetariangluten-free

Allergens

nuts

Also Known As

Stuffed Eggplant

Similar Syrian Videos

(24 videos)

Similar Recipes From Other Cuisines

(24 videos)