Khoresh Bademjan: Persian Eggplant and Tomato Stew

Khoresh Bademjan is a vegetarian Persian eggplant and tomato stew, braised with pomegranate molasses for a distinct savory and sweet profile.

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Instructions

  1. Salt eggplant in a colander and set aside.

  2. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sauté onion for 7-9 minutes until translucent.

  3. Add garlic, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon salt; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. Pat eggplant dry, then add to the pan with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring, until tender and reduced.

  5. Stir in tomatoes, breaking them into chunks. Add water, pomegranate molasses, and saffron (if using); stir well.

  6. Simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook covered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  7. Combine yogurt, dill, garlic, and salt in a small bowl; refrigerate until serving.

  8. Serve the hot stew over rice, quinoa, or couscous with the prepared yogurt sauce.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

Calories: 273 kcal
Carbohydrate: 47 g
Cholesterol: 3 mg
Fiber: 9 g
Protein: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Sodium: 242 mg
Sugar: 30 g
Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 0 g