Recipe: Turkish Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini Kebabs with Tomato Sauce

Introduction

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse range of dishes. One popular and delicious option is Turkish Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini Kebabs with Tomato Sauce. This vegetarian recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthy and flavorful meal option. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients

For the kebabs:

• 2 large eggplants
• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 yellow bell pepper
• 1 red onion
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the tomato sauce:

• 4 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables

Start by washing the eggplants, zucchinis, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion. Cut the eggplants and zucchinis into thick slices, approximately 1 inch thick. Cut the bell peppers and red onion into chunks of similar size.

Step 2: Marinating the vegetables

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade. Brush the marinade onto both sides of the eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion. Let the vegetables marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Step 3: Grilling the kebabs

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated vegetables onto skewers, alternating between eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion. Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred.

Step 4: Preparing the tomato sauce

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to break down. Add red wine vinegar, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Serving

Remove the grilled kebabs from the skewers and arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle the tomato sauce over the kebabs or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an added burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Turkish Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini Kebabs with Tomato Sauce is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Turkish cuisine. The combination of grilled vegetables and tangy tomato sauce creates a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you are a vegetarian or simply looking for a healthy and delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and savor the taste of Turkey in your own kitchen!