Aubergine Vegan Recipes Jamie Oliver Fans Will Love

Aubergine, also known as eggplant, is a wonderfully versatile vegetable that lends itself beautifully to vegan cooking. Jamie Oliver has long been an advocate for simple, flavorful, and wholesome meals, and his aubergine vegan recipes are no exception.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or someone looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, these recipes are packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures that will make aubergine the star of your kitchen.

From smoky grilled aubergines to rich, tomato-based stews, Jamie’s approach focuses on fresh ingredients, minimal fuss, and maximum taste. In this blog post, we’ll explore a selection of Jamie Oliver’s favorite aubergine vegan recipes, offering you detailed instructions, tips, and variations to elevate your cooking game.

Not only are aubergines nutrient-rich and low in calories, but they also soak up flavors wonderfully, making them perfect for a variety of dishes. Plus, these recipes are perfect for any occasion—whether a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat.

Let’s dive in and discover why these aubergine vegan recipes from Jamie Oliver deserve a place in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s aubergine vegan recipes are all about celebrating natural flavors and textures without relying on animal products. These dishes bring out the creamy, meaty consistency of aubergines while layering in vibrant herbs, spices, and complementary vegetables.

Not only are these recipes healthy and packed with fiber, but they’re also incredibly adaptable. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or tailor the spice level to your preference.

Moreover, these recipes are designed to be approachable for cooks of all skill levels. With clear step-by-step instructions and common kitchen equipment, you’ll be able to whip up delicious aubergine dishes that impress family and friends alike.

Plus, by cooking plant-based meals like these, you’re contributing to a more sustainable food system. What’s not to love?

Ingredients

• 2 medium aubergines, cut into thick slices or cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 400g canned chopped tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 fresh chili, finely chopped (optional)
• Fresh basil and parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Juice of half a lemon
• 200g cooked chickpeas (optional for added protein)

Equipment

• Large frying pan or skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Baking tray (if roasting aubergine)
• Measuring spoons
• Serving dish or bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the aubergine: Wash and dry the aubergines. Cut them into thick slices or cubes, depending on the recipe you prefer.
2. Salt the aubergine (optional): To remove any bitterness and excess moisture, sprinkle the aubergine pieces with salt and leave them in a colander for 20 minutes. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Cook the aubergine: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the aubergine pieces in batches, frying until golden and tender, about 6-8 minutes per batch. Set aside on a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain excess oil.
4. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook gently for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
5. Add the spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, and fresh chili if using. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to release the aromas.
6. Add the tomatoes: Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes and stir well. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
7. Combine aubergine and chickpeas: Return the cooked aubergine to the pan and add the cooked chickpeas if using. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld for 5 more minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil and parsley before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

“For a smokier flavor, try grilling the aubergine slices before adding them to the tomato sauce.”

Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of oregano to change the flavor profile. If you prefer a creamier texture, stirring in some coconut milk or cashew cream towards the end can transform this into a luscious curry.

For a heartier meal, serve this aubergine dish atop cooked quinoa, rice, or alongside warm flatbreads. If you want to add a bit of crunch, toasted pine nuts or walnuts sprinkled on top work beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This aubergine vegan recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a Mediterranean flair, try serving it alongside Green Chile Cheese Bread or a fresh green salad.

If you prefer something lighter, a bowl of steamed half runner beans makes a great companion — check out this great Half Runner Beans Recipe that complements aubergine beautifully.

For those craving a more indulgent touch, serve your aubergine dish with warm flatbreads or pita, or even alongside a fluffy portion of couscous or rice.

More Aubergine Vegan Recipes by Jamie Oliver

Jamie Oliver’s approach to aubergine is always fresh and exciting. Here are a few more vegan recipes you might love:

1. Smoky Aubergine and Tomato Stew: A rich, slow-cooked tomato base with aubergine, garlic, and smoked paprika, perfect for cozy dinners.
2. Aubergine and Chickpea Curry: With warming spices, coconut milk, and tender aubergine chunks, this curry is both comforting and nutritious.
3. Grilled Aubergine with Herb Dressing: Simple grilled aubergine slices drizzled with a zesty lemon and herb dressing, ideal for summer barbecues.

Each recipe emphasizes fresh, plant-based ingredients and can be adjusted for spice and texture preferences. Be sure to check out these dishes for even more inspiration in your vegan cooking journey.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s aubergine vegan recipes showcase the incredible potential of this humble vegetable to transform into delicious, hearty meals that everyone can enjoy. The combination of smoky spices, fresh herbs, and vibrant tomatoes highlights the aubergine’s versatility and ability to carry bold flavors without overwhelming the palate.

These recipes are not only simple and quick to prepare but also incredibly nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a nutritious weeknight dinner, these aubergine dishes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.

Plus, with so many variations and serving options, you can keep things interesting every time you cook.

Don’t forget to explore other fantastic recipes like Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the delightful Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for dessert ideas after your vegan feast!

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