How to Make Traditional Turkish Eggplant Sauce

Turkish cuisine is rich and diverse, with one of the standout dishes being traditional Turkish eggplant sauce, known as "Patlıcan Sosu". This delightful sauce, perfect for accompanying a variety of dishes, brings together the earthy flavor of roasted eggplant with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. Follow this guide to create your own authentic Turkish eggplant sauce at home.

Ingredients

To make traditional Turkish eggplant sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

2 large eggplants
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 ripe tomatoes, diced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Eggplants

Begin by washing the eggplants thoroughly. To remove excess bitterness, cut them lengthwise and sprinkle salt on the cut surfaces. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out the bitterness. Rinse the eggplants under cold water and pat them dry with a towel.

2. Roasting the Eggplants

Roasting gives the eggplants a lovely smoky flavor. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the eggplants on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil. Roast them for about 25-30 minutes until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft. Alternatively, you can roast them over an open flame for a more authentic taste.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables

While your eggplants are roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and chopped green bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

4. Adding Tomatoes

Once the onion and pepper are softened, add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and create a sauce.

5. Combining Ingredients

Once the eggplants are roasted, remove them from the oven and peel off the skin. Chop the flesh and add it to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, letting them cook together for another 5 minutes on low heat. Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste.

6. Serving

Once you’ve achieved a thick, flavorful sauce, remove it from heat. Serve the Turkish eggplant sauce warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pita bread, or as part of a meze platter.

Tips for Perfecting Your Eggplant Sauce

For an extra smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika in the sauce.
Feel free to add other ingredients like minced meat or chickpeas for added protein.
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend the sauce after cooking.

Making traditional Turkish eggplant sauce at home is a simple and rewarding process. Whether enjoyed as a dip, a side dish, or a sauce, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy the tastes of Turkey with every bite!