Sweet-Sour Griddled Aubergines

 

Introduction:
Step into a world of Mediterranean flavors with these sweet-sour griddled aubergines. Charred to perfection and drizzled with a delightful agrodolce dressing, this dish is a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet. Ideal as a light summer side or as part of a party spread, these aubergines bring a touch of sophistication to any table. Finished with toasted walnuts, crumbled feta, and a hint of sumac, this dish is both a feast for the eyes and the palate.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 6 (as a side)

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Ingredients:

• 3 aubergines, cut into 1cm-thick slices

• Olive oil, for brushing

• 25g walnuts

• 1 tbsp caster sugar

• 1½ tbsp runny honey

• 1½ tbsp sherry vinegar

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 3 oregano sprigs, leaves picked and chopped

• 1 red onion, finely chopped

• 50g feta, crumbled

• 1½ tsp sumac

• 1½ tsp sesame seeds

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: 196

• Fat: 12.7g

• Saturates: 2.7g

• Carbs: 13.7g

• Sugars: 12.7g

• Fibre: 5.9g

• Protein: 4g

• Salt: 0.3g

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Method:

Step 1:
Preheat a griddle pan over high heat. Season the aubergine slices with fine sea salt and brush both sides with olive oil. Grill the slices in batches for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden, charred, and soft all the way through. Transfer the cooked slices to a bowl and repeat with the remaining aubergines.

Step 2:
Toast the walnuts in a dry frying pan over medium heat until fragrant. Sprinkle over the caster sugar and a pinch of salt, stirring until the nuts are lightly coated. Remove from heat, allow to cool, and roughly chop.

Step 3:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, sherry vinegar, and extra-virgin olive oil. Pour the dressing over the warm aubergines in the bowl, tossing gently to coat.

Step 4:
Arrange the dressed aubergines on a large serving platter. Scatter the chopped walnuts, oregano, red onion, and crumbled feta over the top. Sprinkle with sumac and sesame seeds for a final flourish.

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Serving Suggestion:
Serve this dish warm or at room temperature as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Pair it with warm pita, hummus, or grilled meats for a complete spread.

Tip:
For extra depth of flavor, let the aubergines marinate in the dressing for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this vibrant, versatile dish that’s sure to impress!