Georgian-style beef with eggplant is a classic dish that pairs tender beef with flavorful vegetables, enhanced by aromatic Georgian spices. The eggplants provide a soft texture and a subtle bite, while fresh herbs and garlic make the dish vibrant and comforting. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or a special occasion!
Ingredients:
- Beef (stewing or sirloin), cut into strips – 1.5 lbs (700 g)
- Eggplant – 1 medium (about 1 lb / 450 g)
- Bell pepper – 1 medium
- Onion – 2 medium
- Carrot – 1 medium
- Canned tomatoes (in their own juice) – 2 (14 oz / 400 g each)
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Walnuts – ½ cup (handful), chopped
- Khmeli-suneli (Georgian spice blend) – 2 tsp
- Paprika – 1 tsp
- Fresh cilantro – 1 small bunch, chopped
- Vegetable oil – for frying
- Salt – to taste
Cooking process
1️⃣ Prepare the eggplant:
Cut the eggplant into cubes, place in a bowl, and sprinkle generously with salt. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to draw out excess bitterness. Rinse and pat dry before cooking.
2️⃣ Cook the beef:
Heat 2–3 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and fry for 10–15 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3️⃣ Prepare vegetables:
- Slice the bell pepper and carrot into thin strips.
- Cut the onion into half rings.
4️⃣ Fry the eggplant:
In the same pan, heat another 2 tbsp of oil. Fry the eggplant until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel to drain excess oil.
5️⃣ Sauté the other vegetables:
- Add the carrot to the pan and sauté for 3 minutes.
- Add the onion and paprika, cooking for another 5 minutes.
6️⃣ Combine everything:
Add canned tomatoes, minced garlic, and khmeli-suneli to the pan. Stir well. Return the fried beef and eggplant to the pan, cover with a lid, and simmer on low heat for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the flavors meld.
7️⃣ Finish the dish:
Sprinkle chopped walnuts and fresh cilantro on top before serving. Adjust salt to taste.
Serving suggestion:
Serve Georgian-style beef with eggplant over steamed rice, alongside crusty bread, or with a side of fresh salad. The dish is even more flavorful the next day!
Enjoy your meal!
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