Eggplant Puree & Tomato Stew – Hunkar Begendi

A delicious Ottoman style comfort food!
This hearty beef stew with eggplant puree is a comforting and flavorful twist on a classic Turkish stew. Tender, slow-simmered beef is cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and warm spices, creating a rich, savory base. The dish is elevated with a creamy roasted eggplant puree, enriched with butter, milk, and melted mozzarella, adding a velvety texture and subtle depth of flavor. This is a great dish for a nourishing weeknight meal or a cozy dinner, this recipe combines protein, vegetables, and indulgent creaminess in a balanced and satisfying way.
Ingredients
Stew
- 2 onions, finely diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 pound stew meat
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 16 oz grated tomatoes
- 2 cups bone broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Eggplant Puree
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp corn flour
- (1)16 oz can of roasted eggplant
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Saute the onions in oil for 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic & meat, and saute for another 10 minutes.
- Add in the remaining stew ingredients & simmer for 35 minutes, until thickened.
- You might want to partially cover the pot 15 minutes into simmering!
- For the puree, melt the butter & flour together.
- Add in the remaining puree ingredients, and simmer until the cheese is completely melted into the puree.