How to Make Turkish Eggplant Sauce for Grilled Dishes

Turkish Eggplant Sauce, known as "Patlıcan Sosu," is a flavorful condiment that enhances grilled dishes, bringing a touch of Mediterranean flair to your table. Its rich, smoky flavor pairs perfectly with meats, vegetables, and even grains. Here’s how to make this delicious sauce at home for your next barbecue.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium-sized eggplants
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tomatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Eggplants

Begin by roasting the eggplants. Preheat your grill or oven. If using a grill, place the eggplants directly on the grates, turning them occasionally until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft (approximately 20-30 minutes). If using an oven, poke holes in the eggplants and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes.

2. Cooling and Peeling

Once the eggplants are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly. Peel off the charred skin and chop the flesh into small pieces. Set aside.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables soften, around 5 more minutes.

4. Adding Tomatoes and Spices

Add the chopped tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Combining Ingredients

Once the tomato mixture is ready, fold in the chopped roasted eggplant. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

6. Serving Your Eggplant Sauce

Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley. This sauce can be served warm, at room temperature, or even chilled.

Perfect Pairings

This Turkish Eggplant Sauce is perfect for enhancing grilled meats such as chicken, lamb, or beef. It also complements grilled vegetables and can be drizzled over rice or couscous for a complete meal. Serve it as a dip with pita bread or as a sauce alongside your favorite grilled dishes.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!

Experience the deliciousness of Turkish cuisine at your next gathering with this easy-to-make Eggplant Sauce. Its smoky flavor and vibrant ingredients will surely impress your guests and elevate your grilled dishes.