Savor the Rich Flavors of Our Easy Eggplant Stew Recipe.
Discover the deliciousness of Mediterranean cuisine with our easy eggplant stew recipe.
This vegetarian delight combines tender eggplant with aromatic herbs and vegetables, creating a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any meal.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or a hearty side, this eggplant stew is sure to satisfy.
Packed with fresh ingredients like onions, green peppers, and crushed tomatoes, and seasoned with basil and mint, this stew brings a burst of flavor to your table.
Ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, our easy-to-follow recipe ensures you can enjoy a nutritious and tasty meal without the hassle.
Dive into this Mediterranean vegetable stew and experience the magic of wholesome, home-cooked food. Perfect for those who appreciate the rich, earthy flavors of eggplant, this recipe is a must-try for any home chef looking to expand their culinary repertoire.
⦁ 1 medium eggplant
⦁ 2 tablespoons olive oil
⦁ 1 small onion, chopped
⦁ ½ green pepper, chopped
⦁ 1 (15 oz) fresh or can crushed tomatoes
⦁ ½ teaspoon basil leaves
⦁ ½ teaspoon fresh mint, chopped
⦁ Salt and pepper, to taste
⦁ 1 cup water
1. Prepare the Eggplant: Peel and cube the eggplant.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green pepper, and sauté until softened. Season with basil, mint, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cubed eggplant.
4. Simmer: Add the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 30 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients
✔ Eggplant – Use medium, firm globe eggplants or slender Japanese eggplants for fewer seeds and silky texture
✔ Tomatoes – Ripe fresh tomatoes or peeled canned ones; juicy and sweet are key
✔ Garlic – Plenty of it; thinly sliced or minced for aromatic depth
✔ Onions – Yellow or red onions, sautéed until golden for sweetness
✔ Bell Peppers – Optional, but add sweetness and texture
✔ Olive Oil – Essential for richness and depth; eggplant soaks it up beautifully
✔ Fresh Herbs – Parsley, mint, or basil to finish
✔ Salt & Pepper – Season generously, especially during layering
✔ Optional Add-ins – Crushed red pepper, paprika, or a pinch of cumin for subtle warmth
👩🍳 Preparation
✔ Salt the Eggplant – Slice and salt for 20–30 minutes to draw out bitterness; pat dry before cooking
✔ Brown the Eggplant – Lightly pan-fry or roast slices before stewing for added flavor and structure
✔ Layer the Ingredients – In a heavy pot, layer eggplant, onions, tomatoes, garlic, and peppers
✔ Simmer Gently – Add a splash of water or tomato juice and cook covered on low heat until soft and melded
✔ Finish with Herbs – Stir in fresh herbs at the end for brightness and freshness
🔥 Cooking Techniques
✔ Low & Slow – The key to juicy, meltingly tender Benajune is gentle heat over time
✔ Use a Wide Pot or Deep Pan – Allows even layering and thorough cooking
✔ Stir Occasionally – Prevents sticking and helps flavors combine
✔ Add Oil Generously – Eggplant loves oil, but balance it so it’s rich, not greasy
🍳 Balancing Flavors
✔ Sweet vs. Savory – Onion and pepper sweetness contrast beautifully with earthy eggplant
✔ Garlic & Tomato Base – Create the backbone of the dish’s rich Mediterranean flavor
✔ Acidity Check – A squeeze of lemon or splash of vinegar can brighten the whole pot
✔ Spice It Gently – Add a pinch of paprika or Aleppo pepper for subtle warmth
📦 Storage
✔ Fridge – Keeps 3–4 days in a sealed container; flavor improves overnight
✔ Freezer-Friendly – Cool fully, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months
✔ Reheat Gently – On low heat in a pan or microwave with a splash of water
✔ Meal Prep Bonus – Make a big batch and enjoy with grains, bread, or eggs
🍽 Serving
✔ Serve Warm or Room Temp – Delicious hot with rice or bread, or chilled as part of a mezze platter
✔ Perfect with Lavash or Pita – Use the bread to scoop every juicy bite
✔ Pair With – Yogurt, feta, or bulgur pilaf for a complete meal
✔ Vegan & Gluten-Free – Naturally plant-based, filling, and packed with nutrients