Hünkar beğendi is a traditional Turkish dish that is made with smoked, pureed eggplant mixed with ground meat and served with a rich sauce. The name “Hünkar beğendi” translates to “the Sultan liked it” in English. Here’s recipe of Hünkar Beğendi;
Pierce 4 medium-sized eggplants with a knife and place them on a baking tray. Bake at around 200 degrees for approximately 20 minutes.
Transfer the baked eggplants to a bowl and cover them with stretch film. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to make it easier to peel the skin.
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan. Add 2 finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
After adding 4 cloves of minced garlic, add 600 grams of cubed beef or lamb meat.
Allow the meat to cook until it releases and absorbs its juices. Add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of salt and black pepper each, and 3 peeled and chopped tomatoes.
Add 2 cups of hot water and let the meat cook until it becomes tender.
Add 2 cups of hot water and let the meat cook until it becomes tender.
Add the baked and peeled eggplants to the pan. Gradually pour in 1.5 cups of milk while continuously stirring. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and black pepper each.
Finally, add 1/2 cup of grated kasar cheese and stir. Remove from heat.
Place the tender cooked meat over the eggplant puree and serve. Enjoy your meal!
