Eggplant Fattet Batinjan Casserole

This delicious Middle Eastern casserole is full of delicious flavors and notes. Fattet meaning crumble in Arabic is for the crispy crumbled pita chips which are the star of the dish.

Roasted eggplant is layered ontop of the crunchy pita chips, topped with garlic flavored yogurt with fried nuts to give you a taste of the Middle East.

Traditionally meat is also added and can also be made with chickpeas instead of the eggplant. But I just love and couldn't resist the delicious eggplants in season.

Here's my take on Fattet Batinjan, a great brunch or side dish to enjoy with friends and family.

Ingredients:

Olive Oil

1 Lg Eggplant (chopped)

4 to 5 Pita Bread (cut into squares)

1 cup Yogurt

1/2 Lemon (juiced)

1/8 to 1/4 cup Tahini (Sesame Paste, Optional)

2 Garlic Cloves (mashed)

1 to 2 tbsp Butter or Ghee

2 tbsp Slivered Almonds

2 tbsp Pinenuts

Paprika (for garnish)

1 tbsp Parsley (for garnish)

Season your cubed eggplant in salt/pepper and a good drizzle of olive oil. Place on a foil lined baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400'F for 30 to 40 minutes, flipping over half way.

Brush your pita bread on both sides with olive oil (for extra flavor sprinkle with some Za'tar seasoning). Cut or rip the pita bread into small bite size pieces and pop them in the oven with the eggplant on 400'F for 10 to 15 mins, tossing halfway until golden and crispy.

For the yogurt drizzle you will need to whisk together yogurt, tahini, garlic and lemon juice. If you are allergic or don't have the tahini (Sesame Paste), just whisk in extra desired spices like salt/pepper, mint.

Fry up some almonds and pinenuts in butter or ghee until golden brown and then set them aside to drain on a paper towel.

Now for assembly! Layer your toasted pita chips at the bottom of your serving platter.

Top with your roasted eggplant.

Then with your garlic yogurt.

Finally, top it with your fried nuts, parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, a drizzle of olive oil and enjoy!

Prep all the layers in advance for your next brunch party and assemble right before serving. A delicious, mouthwatering dish full of warm, cool and crispy tones for all palettes.