In many parts of the Middle East, this stuffed eggplant dish is referred to as Sheikh Mahshi, which means “stuffed sheikh-style.” Sheikh is a title given to the head of a tribe or household– someone of higher wisdom and esteem. So what does this have to do with stuffed eggplant?
This particular stuffed eggplant recipe is thought of as the star of all stuffed dishes. One that’s often reserved for honored guests, it’s delicate and tasty that it’s deemed,”fit for a sheikh.” Here’s the gist. Perfectly roasted eggplant halves serve as boats for a fragrant stuffing mixture of spiced meat, fine bulgur, and pine nuts. The stuffed eggplant boats are then baked briefly in tomato sauce. (By the way, if you’re interested in learning more about bulgur wheat and how to cook it, check out my post all about it for simple tips and tricks!)
What to serve with Sheik Mahshi Stuffed Eggplant
You can serve this stuffed eggplant as side dish, but it can stand all on its own as a one-pan meal. I like to top the finished eggplants with a little sauce like spicy zhoug or homemade Tzatziki sauce. Even plain yogurt will do well to compliment the saucy stuffed eggplant. All that’s needed is some warm pita bread and a side of zesty fresh salad like fattoush, simple chopped salad, or even this herbed tomato salad.
More Recipes to Try
Moussaka: Greek Eggplant Casserole 4.9 from 14 reviews
Homemade Zhoug Pesto see recipe Homemade Greek Tzatziki, see recipe Plain yogurt
Baked Rigatoni with Eggplant and Tomato Italian Eggplant Parmigiana Egyptian Vegan Stew with Peas and Carrots Avgolemono: Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Mediterranean Vegan Wraps with Roasted Cauliflower
