Sweet Potato Eggplant Bake
This sweet potato and eggplant bake is a simple but flavorful side dish that can be enjoyed as part of a weeknight meal or a special occasion dinner. The sweet potatoes and eggplant are roasted in olive oil with herbs and spices, resulting in a dish that is both tender and slightly caramelized. The bake can be served hot as a side dish or as a main course with a side of bread or rice.
The origins of this sweet potato and eggplant bake are unclear, but it is thought to have originated in the Middle East or North Africa. The dish is similar to other vegetable bakes, such as ratatouille and tian, and it is likely that it was developed as a way to use up leftover vegetables. Traditionally, this dish would have been made with whatever vegetables were in season, but today it is most commonly made with sweet potatoes, eggplant, and onions. The spices used in the dish can also vary depending on personal preference, but common additions include thyme, rosemary, oregano, and paprika.
Sweet Potato Eggplant Bake Sweet Potato Eggplant Bake Sweet Potato Eggplant Bake Sweet Potato Eggplant Bake
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 45 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
  • 1 large eggplant, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato slices and eggplant slices with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Arrange the sweet potato and eggplant slices in a baking dish in alternating layers.
  4. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned.
  6. Serve hot as a delicious side dish or main course.
Why It Works
  • The combination of sweet potatoes and eggplant creates a dish that is both hearty and flavorful.
  • Roasting the vegetables in olive oil helps to caramelize them, resulting in a dish that is slightly sweet and crispy.
  • The herbs and spices add flavor and complexity to the dish.
  • This dish is easy to make and can be tailored to your own personal taste.