Turkish Squash and Eggplant Recipes You Can Try

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients, and two staples that shine in many dishes are squash and eggplant. Here, we explore some delicious Turkish squash and eggplant recipes that you can easily try at home.

1. Zucchini Fritters (Kabak Mücveri)

These flavorful zucchini fritters are perfect as an appetizer or a light snack. They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside, usually served with a yogurt dip.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Place grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 20 minutes to release excess moisture. Squeeze out any remaining liquid.
  2. In a bowl, combine the zucchini, onion, eggs, flour, feta, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan, flattening them slightly.
  4. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels and serve with yogurt.

2. Eggplant Stuffed with Minced Meat (Karniyarik)

This classic Turkish dish features eggplants stuffed with a savory mixture of minced meat, tomatoes, and spices. It’s typically baked to perfection.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggplants
  • 250g minced beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh. Sprinkle with salt and set aside for 30 minutes.
  3. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the minced meat and cook until browned.
  4. Add diced tomatoes and tomato paste, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for another 5 minutes.
  5. Fill the eggplant halves with the meat mixture and place them in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for about 30 minutes.

3. Turkish Roasted Squash (Kabak Tava)

This simple yet delicious roasted squash dish highlights the natural flavors of the vegetable and is a great side for any meal.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium squashes, sliced into rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. On a baking sheet, toss the squash rounds with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme.
  3. Spread the squash in a single layer and roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and tender.

4. Ratatouille Style Eggplant Stew (Taze Patlıcan Yemeği)

This hearty stew combines eggplant with bell peppers, tomatoes, and various spices, representing the best of Turkish home cooking.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggplants, cubed
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, peeled and diced