Spicy Stuffed Aubergine with Savoury Filling
When the weather cools and you're craving something warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying, this Spicy Stuffed Aubergine recipe hits all the right notes. It's an adaptable, nutrient-packed dish that delivers both texture and flavour, whether you make it vegetarian or add a Paleo-approved protein. With a perfectly roasted aubergine shell filled with a richly spiced filling, this meal is as nourishing as it is moreish.
Best of all, it's versatile. While the recipe below is meat-free, you can easily stir through some browned minced beef or lamb to boost the protein content and make it even heartier. It's also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand. With a good balance of healthy fats, fibre, and natural flavour, this dish proves that eating well doesn't have to mean compromising on comfort.
Spicy Stuffed Aubergine
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Steamer
- Large pan
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 large aubergine halved lengthwise
- 1 sweet potato peeled and diced
- 1 carrot peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini diced
- 2 cups of stock chicken or vegetable
- 1 brown onion finely diced
- 1/8 tsp ground cumin
For the Spice Mixture:
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground coriander
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/8 tsp ground mace
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/8 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: First, set your oven to 190C (375F).
- Prepare the Spice Mixture: Then, in a bowl, thoroughly combine all of the spice mixture ingredients and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: Next, boil a pan of water and once boiling, add in the diced sweet potato and carrot. Steam for a couple of minutes to soften. Add the diced zucchini and cook for a further three minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
- Hollow and Steam Aubergine: Then, hollow out the aubergine halves, retaining the insides. Steam the aubergine halves until tender, approximately 5 minutes, then allow to cool.
- Prepare the Filling: Next, in another pan, bring the stock to a boil, add the spice mixture and diced onion. Cook until the onion is soft, then add the reserved aubergine pieces. Cook for a few more minutes, then add the carrots, sweet potatoes, zucchini, and ground cumin. Stir well to combine.
- Stuff the Aubergines: Spoon the vegetable mixture into the aubergine shells and place them in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for approximately 30 minutes until thoroughly cooked.
- Serve: Finally, top with fresh herbs and serve. Enjoy as a main dish or a hearty side.
Why Aubergines Are the Star of the Show
Aubergines (or eggplants, as our US friends call them) are often overlooked in the Paleo world, but they shouldn’t be. They’re low in carbs, high in antioxidants, and an excellent source of dietary fibre. Their meaty texture makes them ideal for stuffing, grilling, or roasting. When cooked properly, aubergine becomes soft, silky, and the perfect vessel for soaking up bold flavours like garlic, cumin, paprika, and chilli.
A Comforting Dish with Flexible Options
This stuffed aubergine recipe has endless variations. You can mix up the vegetables, add your favourite spice blends, or include chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch. If you’re not strictly meat-free, consider stirring through some minced beef or lamb before baking, or top with sliced grilled chicken after it’s cooked.
For a plant-based protein boost, toss in a handful of chopped walnuts, or use a spoonful of tahini stirred into the filling. The creamy texture of tahini pairs beautifully with the bold spice profile and adds extra richness to each bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed aubergine halves with a side of fresh greens, such as rocket or baby spinach dressed in a splash of lemon juice and olive oil. If you're planning a Paleo feast, these pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted root vegetables, or a simple cauliflower mash.
For something a little different, try a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil or a spoonful of homemade tomato relish on the side. This adds extra depth to the dish and balances out the spice.
Make-Ahead Tips
These Spicy Stuffed Aubergines are perfect for prepping in advance. You can roast the aubergine halves and prepare the filling up to a day before serving. When ready to eat, simply stuff and bake until everything is piping hot and slightly golden on top. Leftovers keep well in the fridge and are ideal for lunch the next day.
Looking to freeze? Cooked stuffed aubergines can be frozen in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven until heated through. They make a great last-minute dinner option when you're short on time but still want a nourishing meal.
Using What You Have
This recipe is very forgiving. Feel free to substitute the vegetables in the filling with whatever is in your fridge. Chopped courgette, grated carrot, finely shredded kale, or mushrooms all work well. Just aim for a balance of moisture and texture, so the filling isn’t too dry or too wet.
Perfect for Entertaining
These look impressive on a plate, making them perfect for a dinner party or casual get-together. You can easily double the recipe to serve a crowd, and the individual aubergine halves are ideal for plating up a colourful, elegant meal. Add a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving to give the dish a final hit of brightness.
Love Stuffed Veggies?
If you enjoy this dish, don’t miss my stuffed capsicum recipe. It’s another versatile and visually stunning way to enjoy your veggies, using a similar approach with different textures and flavours. Combining both dishes makes for a vibrant and satisfying Paleo meal that's as appealing to look at as it is to eat.
Get Involved
Do you have a go-to stuffed vegetable recipe? Perhaps a special twist or spice blend that elevates your version? Share your ideas and variations in the comments below. We love hearing how you make these recipes your own.
Whether you're eating solo, cooking for family, or entertaining guests, this Spicy Stuffed Aubergine recipe is bound to become a regular part of your Paleo rotation. Full of flavour, easy to customise, and incredibly satisfying, it’s a dish that proves healthy eating doesn't need to be complicated.
For more Paleo recipe inspiration, explore the site for everything from one-pan meals and salads to desserts and comfort food favourites. And if you make this dish, let us know how it turned out. Happy cooking!
