There are hundreds of versions of this Turkish aubergine dish. It is authentically quite oily, but reduce the oil if you prefer
Prep:15 mins
Serves 6
3 aubergines2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing1 Spanish onion, finely chopped2 garlic cloves, crushed1 tsp cinnamon8 ripe tomatoes, peeledsmall bunch flat-leaf parsley, chopped12 lamb chops or cutletspaprika, for seasoning1 lemon, halved
STEP 1Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5. Halve the aubergines lengthways and score the flesh side deeply, brush with a good layer of olive oil and put on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 mins or until the flesh is soft enough to scoop out.STEP 2Fry the onion in a little oil until soft, add the garlic and cinnamon and fry for 1 min. Once the aubergines are cool enough to handle, scoop out the centres. Roughly chop the flesh and add it to the onions. Halve the tomatoes, scoop the seeds and juice into a sieve set over a bowl, then chop the flesh. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook everything for 10 mins until nice and soft. Add a little more oil if you need to. Stir in the parsley, leaving a little for scattering at the end.STEP 3Lay the aubergine halves in a baking dish and divide the tomato mixture between them. Pour over the juice from the tomatoes, drizzle with more olive oil and bake for 30 mins until the aubergines have collapsed.STEP 4Meanwhile, mix the tzatziki ingredients together and put in a small serving bowl.STEP 5Season the lamb with salt, black pepper and a pinch of paprika. Griddle, grill or barbecue for 3 mins on each side or until the fat is nicely browned, then put in a serving dish and squeeze over the lemon halves. Scatter the aubergines with parsley, then serve with the lamb and tzatziki.
