Let's explore the world of Turkish cuisine and uncover the delectable dish that is hunkar begendi. This culinary masterpiece, originating from the Ottoman Empire, is a captivating fusion of tender meat, roasted eggplant, and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey as we delve into the best recipes for this tantalizing dish, promising an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
TURKISH STYLE CHICKEN WITH HUNKAR BEGENDI
Steps:
- FOR CHICKEN: Brown chicken in a little olive oil. Place pieces in roasting pan, and then brown onions and garlic in oil from chicken. Add the 4 spices, and cook a bit longer. Add to chicken pieces in roasting pan, along with rest of ingredients, except walnuts. Roast for about 2 hours, until chicken is tender. Remove chicken pieces and cool them to handling temperature. Discard bay leaves. Remove skin and bones from chicken, and pull meat into large shred. Return meat to pan, mix and adjust seasonings. Heap onto serving platter and top with the nuts. Serve over Hunkar Begendi FOR HUNKAR BEGENDI: Poke holes in eggplants with a fork, and cook over hot coals or flames, close to heat source. Keep turning them so all four sides cook and turn dark brown and charred, and flesh inside becomes very soft. Hold top of eggplant with a towel, over a large bowl. Cut down the side, and scoop out the inside, into the bowl. Remove any pieces of charred skin that may fall in. Mash the pulp and whip with wire whisk, as you add lemon juice. Beat until it becomes light in color and broken down to a creamy consistency. Melt butter in pan and mix in flour. Slowly add half the milk and stir until thickened. Add a small grating of nutmeg. Add the eggplant, and cheese and heat a few minutes, stirring. Add more milk if it appears too thick. Season with Salt and Pepper. Serve with either stewed meat or Turkish Style Chicken heaped in the center.
HUNKAR BEGENDI
Steps:
- Roast eggplant by pricking each one in 3 or 4 places with the tines of a fork. Turn ever 15 minutes, until eggplant is very soft. Remove from oven after about an hour. Cut and spoon out eggplant. Mash in puree. In a 3-4 quart saucepan, heat butter, add milk and flour. Then add eggplant, and mix well. Take off heat, and add grated romano cheese, and fresh black pepper.
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Opt for fresh, ripe vegetables, tender meat, and flavorful spices.
- For a creamier hunkar begendi, use full-fat yogurt and butter. You can also add a touch of cream for extra richness.
- Be careful not to overcook the eggplant. It should be tender but still hold its shape.
- If you don't have a grill, you can cook the eggplant in a hot oven. Just be sure to brush it with olive oil and sprinkle it with salt before roasting.
- Serve hunkar begendi immediately after it's made. The flavors are best when the dish is hot and fresh.
Conclusion:
Hunkar begendi is a delicious and elegant Turkish dish that's perfect for a special occasion. With its tender eggplant, flavorful minced meat, and creamy yogurt sauce, it's a dish that's sure to impress your guests. So next time you're looking for a new and exciting recipe to try, give hunkar begendi a try. You won't be disappointed!
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