Sumac-Spiced Lentil and Eggplant Mash

A tantalizing Middle Eastern-inspired dish, featuring a creamy blend of spiced lentils and eggplant, infused with the tangy essence of sumac.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat the pan. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced eggplant. Cook until the eggplant begins to soften and turns a light golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, adding a bit more oil if needed.
2. 2.
   Add the minced garlic to the eggplant, stirring until fragrant, for about 1 minute. Make sure the garlic doesn't burn by keeping the heat at medium low. If it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat further.
3. 3.
   Stir in the cooked lentils, ensuring they are well combined with the eggplant and garlic. Cook until the lentils are heated through, about 3-4 minutes. Use the back of a spoon to mash the mixture slightly, creating a hearty, textured consistency.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle sumac over the mixture, stirring well to combine. The sumac will add a tangy kick that complements the earthiness of the lentils and the slight bitterness of the eggplant. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding a pinch of salt if desired.
5. 5.
   To serve, drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the mash for an extra richness. The dish should be warm, with a creamy texture from the mashed lentils and eggplant. If the mixture becomes too dry, stir in a tablespoon of water to maintain a moist consistency.