🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Eggplant(cubed)
- 2 medium Zucchini(cubed)
- 2 medium Bell peppers(mixed colors, chopped)
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 0.5 bunch Fresh cilantro(chopped)
- 0.5 bunch Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 0.25 bunch Fresh dill(chopped)
- 4 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 0.25 tsp Red pepper flakes(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Salt the cubed eggplant and let it sit for about 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
⏱️ 20 minutes💡 Tip: This step helps prevent the eggplant from becoming too oily and bitter. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant and sauté until golden brown on all sides. Remove eggplant and set aside.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 3
Add the zucchini to the same pot and sauté until lightly browned. Remove zucchini and set aside with the eggplant.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 4
Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 5
Add the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 7
Return the sautéed eggplant and zucchini to the pot. Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Add a splash of water if the mixture seems too dry. - 8
Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and flavors have melded.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 9
Stir in the chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, dill) just before serving.
💡 Tip: Adding herbs at the end preserves their fresh flavor and aroma.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ajapsandali is delicious served warm or at room temperature.
- ✓It can be served as a side dish or a main vegetarian course.
- ✓For a richer flavor, a small amount of red wine can be added with the tomatoes.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of ground coriander for an extra layer of flavor.
- Some recipes include potatoes, added with the onions.