Cooking Village! Two Ways to Cook Meat and Eggplant in the Village ♡ Iran Village Life

minced lamb

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground beef is often more economical.

eggplant

🥗Healthier: zucchini

💰Cheaper: bell peppers

Zucchini offers similar texture with fewer calories, while bell peppers are often less expensive.

fresh herbs

🥗Healthier: dried herbs

💰Cheaper: frozen herbs

Dried herbs are lower in cost and have a longer shelf life.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil is healthier, while canola oil is typically less expensive.

Slice eggplant and sprinkle with salt; let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.

Rinse and pat dry the eggplant slices.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in minced lamb and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.

Add turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom; mix well and cook for 2 minutes.

Incorporate chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down, about 5 minutes.

Add water and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Layer the eggplant on top of the stew; cover and cook for 30 minutes.

Add chickpeas and lemon juice; stir gently to combine.

Simmer for an additional 10 minutes until flavors meld.

Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary