Baked Eggplant Boats Mozzarella (Printable Recipe)

Hearty baked eggplants filled with cheese, tomato, and herbs for a flavorful vegetarian meal.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 medium eggplants, halved lengthwise and flesh scooped out
02 - Water, for soaking
03 - 1 tablespoon salt, for soaking
04 - 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil
05 - 1 onion, finely chopped
06 - 1 bell pepper, diced
07 - 1 tomato, chopped
08 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
09 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - ½ teaspoon Provençal herbs or Italian seasoning
11 - Salt, to taste
12 - Black pepper, to taste
13 - 100 grams shredded mozzarella cheese (about 3.5 oz)
14 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
15 - 2–3 tablespoons breadcrumbs

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Wash the eggplants and slice them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the center flesh to create a cavity in each half.
02 - Place eggplant halves in a bowl of salted water (1 tablespoon salt) for 15–20 minutes to reduce bitterness.
03 - Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
04 - Stir in diced bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes. Add chopped tomato and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until softened.
05 - Add tomato paste, smoked paprika, Provençal herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 2 more minutes.
06 - Remove skillet from heat. Stir in shredded mozzarella and half the chopped parsley until combined.
07 - Preheat oven to 180°C (360°F). Drizzle vegetable oil into a baking dish and arrange eggplant halves cut-side up.
08 - Spoon the vegetable mixture into each eggplant half. Top with breadcrumbs and remaining parsley.
09 - Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden and eggplants are tender.
10 - Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional herbs or cheese if desired.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Soaking eggplant before baking reduces its natural bitterness and improves flavor.
02 - For extra depth, try using smoked mozzarella or gouda in the filling.
03 - Make the filling ahead and store refrigerated for up to 2 days for easier meal prep.

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