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Vegan Eggplant Pastry with Falafel

Description

A vibrant and aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of Arabic cuisine with the warmth of Spanish cooking. This vegan recipe fusion tender eggplant, crispy falafel, and a tangy romesco sauce, all wrapped in a delicate filo pastry.

Cuisine: Spanish-Arabic Fusion
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the Eggplant:

  • 2 medium eggplants
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Falafel:

  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Romesco sauce:

  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup roasted garlic, mashed
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filo pastry:

  • 1 package filo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
  3. Prepare the falafel by mixing all the ingredients together and forming into small patties. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
  4. Make the Romesco sauce by blending all the ingredients together until smooth.
  5. Assemble the dish by placing a roasted eggplant round on a flat surface, followed by a falafel patty, a spoonful of romesco sauce, and finally a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Suggested Drinks

Verdejo: A crisp and herbaceous white wine from Spain that pairs well with the bright flavors of the eggplant and Romesco sauce. 

Garnacha: A medium-bodied red wine from Spain that complements the smokiness of the paprika and the depth of the falafel.

Non-Alcoholic Options

Cucumber Lime Refresher: A refreshing drink made by mixing cucumber slices, lime juice, and sparkling water. 

Spicy Pineapple Ginger Beer: A fizzy and flavorful beer that complements the spicy kick from the paprika and the sweetness of the eggplant.