Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that beautifully showcases the tender texture and rich, savory taste of aubergine (eggplant). The recipe, which is a delicious combination of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, is often served as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course. Aubergines are sliced into thick, hearty rounds, marinated with aromatic spices, and then grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender yet slightly crispy texture on the outside. The key to the dish’s depth of flavor lies in the spiced marinade, which typically includes ingredients such as cumin, paprika, garlic, and olive oil, allowing the aubergine to soak up the deliciously fragrant blend of seasonings.
Mary Berry, known for her warm and accessible approach to home cooking, brings her expertise to this recipe by ensuring the aubergine retains its natural richness while being complemented by bold, earthy flavors. The grilling process also adds a smoky char that elevates the dish even further, giving it a satisfying complexity. The dish is both easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a simple yet satisfying meal at home.
Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that work harmoniously together to create a flavorful marinade and a perfectly grilled aubergine. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Aubergines (Eggplants) – You will need about two medium-sized aubergines for this recipe. Choose aubergines that are firm, smooth, and free of blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size, which is an indication of freshness and good quality.
- Olive Oil – The olive oil serves as the base for the marinade and also helps to achieve a golden, slightly crispy exterior during grilling. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for a more intense, fruity flavor.
- Ground Cumin – A key spice in the dish, ground cumin adds a warm, earthy aroma with a hint of citrus. Its slightly smoky and nutty profile complements the mild flavor of the aubergine.
- Ground Paprika – Paprika contributes a sweet, slightly smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cumin. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can use smoked paprika for a more intense smoky kick.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic will infuse the aubergine with a robust, aromatic flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your personal preference for garlic.
- Lemon Juice – The acidity from fresh lemon juice helps to balance the richness of the olive oil and aubergine, giving the dish a fresh, zesty kick.
- Salt and Pepper – These simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the aubergine and spices, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Fresh Herbs (Optional) – You can garnish the spiced grilled aubergine with fresh herbs like parsley, coriander (cilantro), or mint for added freshness and a pop of color.
- Yogurt or Tahini (Optional) – For serving, a drizzle of yogurt or tahini can add a creamy, tangy contrast to the spiced aubergine. This is optional, but highly recommended for a more luxurious dish.
Equipment Needed
While this recipe doesn’t require any specialized equipment, there are a few essential tools that will make your cooking process smoother and more efficient:
- Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill – The best way to achieve that perfect char on the aubergine slices is by using a grill pan or an outdoor grill. A grill pan allows you to grill indoors, creating those distinctive grill marks and a smoky flavor. Alternatively, if you have access to an outdoor grill, the smoky flavor will be even more pronounced.
- Sharp Knife – A sharp knife is essential for cutting the aubergines into even, uniform slices. This ensures even cooking and makes the final presentation look more polished.
- Baking Tray or Large Plate – You’ll need a tray or a large plate to lay the sliced aubergines on after they are coated with the marinade. This will help them absorb the marinade before grilling.
- Small Bowl – For mixing your marinade, a small bowl is perfect. You’ll combine the olive oil, spices, garlic, and lemon juice here.
- Pastry Brush or Spoon – To evenly coat the aubergine slices with the marinade, a pastry brush or the back of a spoon can be used to spread the mixture across both sides of the slices.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine
Creating Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine is relatively simple but requires attention to detail to ensure the aubergines are grilled perfectly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dish:
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Prepare the Aubergines:
Start by washing the aubergines thoroughly and slicing them into 1-inch thick rounds. If you prefer, you can also slice them lengthwise into long strips. The thickness of the slices is crucial – too thin, and they’ll burn too quickly; too thick, and they may not cook through evenly.
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Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Add the fresh lemon juice and mix well. This will create a fragrant marinade that coats the aubergines beautifully.
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Marinate the Aubergines:
Lay the aubergine slices out on a large plate or tray. Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously coat both sides of each slice with the marinade. Allow them to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. This gives the spices time to infuse into the aubergine, but if you’re short on time, even a quick marination will still yield flavorful results.
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Grill the Aubergines:
Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat. Once hot, place the aubergine slices on the grill. Grill each side for 3-4 minutes, or until you see grill marks and the aubergines are tender but not mushy. If using a grill pan, you might need to do this in batches.
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Serve:
Once grilled, transfer the aubergines to a serving platter. Optionally, you can drizzle a little yogurt or tahini on top and sprinkle with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint for a refreshing contrast.
Tips And Tricks
- Choosing the Right Aubergine: Make sure to select firm, glossy aubergines for this recipe. A soft aubergine might indicate that it’s overripe or past its prime.
- Salting the Aubergines (Optional): Some recipes recommend salting aubergine slices and letting them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. While this step isn’t strictly necessary for this recipe, it can help improve texture by making the aubergine less spongy and more absorbent of the marinade.
- Grill Marks: For the best grill marks, make sure the grill or grill pan is preheated properly. Don’t overcrowd the grill, as this can cause the aubergine slices to steam rather than grill.
- Make It Spicy: If you like more heat, you can add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Serving Suggestions: This spiced grilled aubergine pairs wonderfully with flatbreads, rice, or couscous. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats, falafel, or even as part of a mezze platter. The addition of tahini or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving will elevate the dish even further.
Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine is a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, offering a vibrant burst of flavors that elevate the humble aubergine into something extraordinary. The combination of aromatic spices and the smoky char from grilling makes each bite satisfying and full of depth. Whether you’re serving it as part of a Mediterranean-inspired feast or as a light, healthy side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. With its minimal prep time and flexible ingredient list, it’s an ideal addition to both casual dinners and more elaborate gatherings. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone dish or paired with other vibrant sides, Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine is a delightful testament to how a few key ingredients can transform a simple vegetable into a memorable, flavorful dish.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine
Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine is a beautifully simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings the richness of aubergine (eggplant) to life with fragrant spices. While her original recipe is a delightful showcase of earthy and smoky flavors, there’s always room to experiment with easy variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to take your grilled aubergine to the next level:
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Spicy and Tangy Twist with Harissa
For those who love a little heat, you can add a spoonful of harissa paste to the marinade. Harissa, a North African chili paste made with roasted peppers, garlic, and spices, will give the aubergine an extra kick while complementing the cumin and coriander in Mary’s original recipe. The tangy and spicy flavor profile of harissa will bring a fiery twist to the grilled aubergine, making it the perfect side dish or vegetarian main for those who appreciate heat.
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Herb Infusion with Fresh Mint and Parsley
For a more Mediterranean-inspired variation, try adding fresh herbs like mint and parsley to the marinade or sprinkle them on top after grilling. Mint and parsley pair wonderfully with aubergine, balancing out the smokiness with a refreshing burst of flavor. You can even create a herb-infused yogurt sauce on the side to drizzle over the aubergine for a cooling effect.
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Roasted Garlic and Lemon Zest
A simple yet striking variation involves roasting garlic alongside the aubergines, allowing it to caramelize and soften as it grills. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkling of lemon zest before serving to add a bright, citrusy freshness. The roasted garlic will give the dish a deep, rich flavor, while the lemon will add a zesty contrast to the earthiness of the aubergine.
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Smoky BBQ-Style Aubergine
If you love the flavor of a good barbecue, try marinating your aubergine in a smoky barbecue sauce before grilling. The aubergine will soak up the sweet and smoky flavors of the sauce, resulting in a comforting, slightly charred taste. You can even toss in a bit of brown sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness, adding another layer of complexity to the dish.
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Asian-Inspired Aubergine with Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil
For an umami-packed variation, marinate your aubergine in a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of rice vinegar. This Asian-inspired twist will bring out the natural sweetness of the aubergine while adding savory depth. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top will finish it off perfectly, giving the dish a crunchy texture and extra flavor.
These variations are all easy to incorporate into Mary Berry’s original recipe, offering a fresh take on the classic spiced grilled aubergine. Whether you prefer your aubergine spicy, herby, tangy, or sweet, there’s no shortage of ways to make this dish uniquely yours.
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve enjoyed the last bite of your Spiced Grilled Aubergine, you might find yourself with some leftovers. Fortunately, this dish stores very well, and with a few simple steps, you can extend its shelf life without compromising its flavor.
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Cool Before Storing
Allow the grilled aubergine to cool completely at room temperature before storing. If you put hot aubergine directly into a container, moisture can form inside the lid, causing sogginess when reheated. It’s best to let it cool for about 30 minutes or so.
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Storage in the Refrigerator
Place the grilled aubergine in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should last for about 3-4 days. If you’ve used a yogurt or dairy-based sauce, it’s a good idea to keep that separate, as it may not store as well with the aubergine. Simply combine them again when you’re ready to eat.
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Freezing Grilled Aubergine
While fresh aubergine tends to lose its texture when frozen, grilled aubergine fares better. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the leftovers. Lay the pieces of grilled aubergine on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven or on the grill to restore its texture and flavor. Keep in mind that the taste might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
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Reheating
The best way to reheat grilled aubergine is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on a grill pan or regular skillet over medium heat, flipping the aubergine halfway through. This will help to restore its grilled texture, giving it that satisfying char.
When stored and reheated properly, leftovers from Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine can still taste fresh and vibrant, making it an excellent dish for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine?
The versatility of spiced grilled aubergine makes it an excellent side dish or centerpiece for many different types of meals. Here are some great pairings to complement the dish:
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Couscous or Quinoa Salad
A light couscous or quinoa salad is a perfect pairing with Mary Berry’s spiced aubergine. The fluffy grains provide a neutral base that complements the deep, smoky flavors of the aubergine. Toss in some fresh vegetables, like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, along with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice, to add freshness and crunch to the dish.
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Hummus and Pita Bread
If you’re looking for a Mediterranean flair, serve your grilled aubergine with creamy hummus and soft pita bread. The rich, garlicky hummus balances the smokiness of the aubergine beautifully, while the pita acts as a perfect vessel for dipping and scooping up both. Add a few olives or a sprinkle of feta for an extra touch of flavor.
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Grilled Meat or Fish
Grilled aubergine works wonderfully as a side dish to grilled meats like lamb chops, chicken, or beef skewers. The earthy, smoky flavor of the aubergine complements the rich, savory taste of grilled meat. For a lighter option, serve it alongside grilled fish like salmon or trout, where the aubergine’s depth enhances the delicate flavors of the fish.
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Tzatziki and Roasted Vegetables
Tzatziki sauce, with its refreshing cucumber and yogurt base, pairs perfectly with the spiced grilled aubergine. The coolness of the tzatziki contrasts the warm, smoky aubergine. To complete the meal, serve with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. The mix of textures and flavors will elevate your dining experience.
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Rice Pilaf or Risotto
For a more substantial dish, pair the grilled aubergine with a rich rice pilaf or a creamy risotto. The grains soak up the flavors of the aubergine while providing a satisfying texture. Try a lemony rice pilaf with herbs like parsley or dill, or a Parmesan-laced risotto for a creamy contrast to the spiced aubergine.
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Fresh Salad
A simple mixed green salad, dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar, adds a refreshing balance to the grilled aubergine. You can also throw in some nuts, like toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds, for crunch, and some crumbled feta cheese to bring in a creamy, salty flavor.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to pairing Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine with other dishes. Whether you’re creating a vegetarian feast or rounding out a hearty meat-centered meal, the aubergine’s versatility will shine through in any combination.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine is a standout dish that combines simple ingredients with bold, aromatic spices to create a deliciously unique flavor profile. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore the various variations discussed here, this dish is bound to impress. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the health benefits of aubergine while satisfying your taste buds with layers of flavor.
Not only is the recipe easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to pair it with an array of sides, meats, or even other vegetables. Plus, the leftovers store well and can be enjoyed in multiple ways, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying the dish across several meals.
Whether you serve it at a dinner party, as part of a Mediterranean feast, or as a simple weeknight dinner, Spiced Grilled Aubergine will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So go ahead-grill, savor, and share the love!
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine Recipe?
To prepare Mary Berry’s spiced grilled aubergine, you’ll need the following ingredients: aubergines (eggplants), olive oil, garlic, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, chili flakes (optional), fresh parsley, and lemon juice. The recipe also calls for salt and pepper to taste. Mary Berry’s combination of these ingredients gives the dish a robust and aromatic flavor, perfect for a side dish or light meal.
How Do I Grill The Aubergines To Get The Perfect Texture For This Recipe?
For the best texture when grilling aubergines, first, slice them into thick rounds or halves, depending on your preference. Salt the slices and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, pat them dry before brushing with olive oil and the spice mix. Preheat your grill or griddle pan on medium heat and cook the aubergines for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are tender and have a nice char. The key is to avoid overcooking, which can make the aubergines soggy. The grilling process should give them a soft inside with a slightly crispy exterior.
Can I Modify Mary Berry’s Spiced Grilled Aubergine Recipe To Make It Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make Mary Berry’s spiced grilled aubergine recipe vegan. The original recipe is already plant-based, so there’s no need for any major adjustments. Just be sure to check the labels for any non-vegan ingredients, like certain types of store-bought spice mixes or pre-made sauces that may contain dairy or animal products. Additionally, you can serve it with a side of quinoa, couscous, or a simple green salad for a more filling vegan meal.
