Mini Stuffed Eggplant Bites Recipe
Of all the appetizers I’ve created over the years, there are a few that have earned a permanent, legendary status in my family’s recipe book. This Mini
Source: Red Recipe
Ingredients
- Miniature Eggplants: 12 small graffiti or Italian eggplants. Their thin skin and
- Lean Ground Beef: 1 lb . Using lean ground beef ensures the filling is rich and
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, finely diced. This forms the aromatic base of our fillin
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is essential for a pungent, savory depth
- Diced Ham: ¼ cup, finely chopped. This is an optional but highly recommended add
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: 1 can, drained. Drained tomatoes provide moisture and a b
- Panko Breadcrumbs: ¾ cup, divided. We’ll use some in the filling for binding and
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated. Provides a salty, nutty flavor th
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, finely chopped, plus more for garnish. Adds a fresh, herba
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon. A classic Mediterranean herb that pairs wonderfully w
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Lends a warm, smoky flavor that enhances the beef an
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: ¼ cup, plus more for brushing. A good quality olive oil
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, plus more for salting the eggplants. Essential for seasoning a
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground. For a touch of spice and to round out
- Large Egg: 1, lightly beaten. This acts as a binder, holding the savory filling