Spicy Lamb and Eggplant Kofte Bake

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. 2

   Dice the eggplant into 1-inch cubes. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.

   ~10 min
3. 3

   In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, diced eggplant, chopped onion, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

   ~5 min
4. 4

   Form the lamb mixture into small, oval-shaped kofte (meatballs).

   ~10 min
5. 5

   Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Sear the kofte on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kofte from the pan and set aside.

   ~7 min
6. 6

   In a saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.

   ~5 min
7. 7

   Arrange the seared kofte in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the kofte.

   ~2 min
8. 8

   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

   ~20 min
9. 9

   Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the kofte are cooked through.

   ~15 min
10. 10

    Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

    ~5 min