Savory Vegetarian Aubergine Balls with Tomato Sauce

Discover savory vegetarian aubergine balls baked to perfection, paired with a rich tomato sauce. A healthy, delicious option for any meal!

Savory Vegetarian Aubergine Balls with Tomato Sauce are a delightful culinary creation that infuses aubergine's rich, earthy flavor (commonly known as eggplant) into delectable bite-sized balls. These balls are made by roasting the aubergine until it becomes soft and smoky, mixing it with wholesome ingredients such as quinoa or brown rice, fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, and cheese or nutritional yeast.

This combination results in a nutritious and satisfying appetizer or main dish that is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor.

A meal that will please both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike.

The straightforward preparation process allows even novice cooks to whip up this recipe without stress, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner or gathering. As you bake the aubergine balls to golden perfection, the tantalizing aroma fills your kitchen, promising a meal that will please both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike.

Aubergines are low in calories while being rich in fiber,

The health benefits of Savory Vegetarian Aubergine Balls are abundant, making them a fantastic addition to any balanced diet. Aubergines are low in calories while being rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which can contribute to heart health and improved digestion.

You have not just an appetizer but a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal

Additionally, incorporating quinoa or brown rice adds essential protein and complex carbohydrates, making these balls a well-rounded option. Serve them warm, generously topped with a vibrant tomato sauce loaded with fresh herbs and crushed tomatoes, and you have not just an appetizer but a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal that the whole family can enjoy.

Aubergine Balls undoubtedly make for a memorable dish that your family will ask for seconds.

Their versatility makes them perfect as an appetizer, a main course, or even a lunchbox favorite for kids, ensuring that you can serve up something healthy that meets various tastes and dietary needs. With their robust flavor and appealing texture, Savory Vegetarian Aubergine Balls undoubtedly make for a memorable dish that your family will ask for seconds.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-50 minutes (including roasting aubergine and baking aubergine balls)
• Servings Yield: Approximately 4-6 servings

Ingredients for Aubergine Balls:

• 1 medium aubergine (eggplant) (about 1 pound)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free, if desired)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tablespoon dried parsley)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Ingredients for Tomato Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh basil)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Roast the Aubergine

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Aubergine: While the oven heats, wash the aubergine and pierce it a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking.
3. Roast the Aubergine: Place the whole aubergine on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until it is very soft and the skin is wrinkled.
4. Cool and Scoop: Remove the roasted aubergine from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Once it's cool enough to handle, cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh into a bowl, discarding the skin.

Step 2: Mix the Aubergine Ball Mixture

1. Cook Quinoa (or Rice): If using quinoa, rinse it under cold water and then cook it according to the package instructions (usually 2:1 water to quinoa ratio, simmer for about 15 minutes). If using brown rice, cook it according to the package instructions.
2. Prepare Other Ingredients: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the onion and parsley and mince the garlic.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the aubergine flesh, cooked quinoa or rice, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (or nutritional yeast), minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, oregano, paprika, and olive oil.
4. Mix Well: Use your hands or a fork to mix all the ingredients until well combined. The mixture should be moist but hold together when formed into balls.

Step 3: Form and Bake Aubergine Balls

1. Form Balls: Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball or slightly smaller.
2. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
3. Place Balls on Sheet: Arrange the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each to allow for cooking.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and firm to the touch.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Crushed Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if using.
3. Simmer Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Combine and Plate: Once the aubergine balls are baked and golden, remove them from the oven.
2. Serve: Place the balls on a plate and generously ladle the tomato sauce over them.
3. Garnish: If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.

Enjoy!

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delicious Savory Vegetarian Aubergine Balls with Tomato Sauce!

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