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A plate of orecchiette pasta topped with a savory meat sauce. The pasta is covered with a rich, reddish-brown sauce that includes ground meat, giving a hearty and flavorful appearance. The dish is served in a white ceramic bowl with a decorative rim.
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Eggplant Bolognese Pasta Recipe

Prep Time40 minutes
WORK TIME40 minutes
Cuisine: World
Servings: 8 yields

Ingredients

  • 4-5 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 1 Eggplant cut into cubes
  • 3 Garlic cloves crushed
  • 600 g Ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon Tomato paste
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1-2 teaspoons Paprika
  • 1 can 400g Crushed tomatoes/tomato sauce
  • Water
  • 250 g Paste of your choice

Instructions

  • DIRECTIONS
    1. In a large pan heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil, add chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes. Add eggplant and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden, about 12 minutes. Add olive oil as needed.
    2. When eggplant is golden add crushed garlic and cook for 1 minute. The move the eggplant mixture the side of the pan, making place for the meat.
    3. Add ground beef and cook over high heat, breaking it apart until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
    4. Add spices, tomato paste and stir. Add crushed tomatoes/tomato sauce, fill the can with water and pour it to the pan. Give it a good stir, then bring to a boil over high heat. when boiling, reduce to low heat and cook for 15-20 minutes.
    5. Meanwhile make the pasta: fill a large pot with water, add 1 tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil. When boiling add the pasta and cook to al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water for later.
    6. Drain the pasta add the meat sauce together with the 1 cup of pasta cooking water. Toss to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes and serve.

    Can I use a different type of pasta?

     Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work well.
     

    Can I make this dish vegetarian?

    Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef or substitute it with plant-based ground meat or tofu for a vegetarian version.
     

    Can I freeze the leftovers?

     Yes, you can freeze the Eggplant Bolognese. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
     eggplant Bolognese

    Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

    Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
     

    Is this recipe spicy?

    The recipe, as written, is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicy kick.
     

    Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

    Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Simply peel and chop them, or use canned tomatoes for convenience.
     

    Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

    Yes, you can use dried herbs. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh.
     

    How can I make this dish dairy-free?

    To make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
     

    Can I make this dish ahead of time?

    Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.
     

    What can I serve with Eggplant Bolognese Pasta?

    This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

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