Batinjan bil Zeit
Baby eggplants braised whole in fragrant olive oil with tomato, garlic, and coriander until they collapse into silky submission — a dish of extraordinary depth from the simplest of pantry ingredients.
Cook this hands-free
All 214 Sofra recipes are free in the app. This one includes step-by-step English voice narration, hands-free Cooking Mode, and the original oud music by Charbel Rouhana.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Ingredients
- 800 grams (12–14 small ones) baby eggplants
- 4 medium, diced ripe tomatoes
- 6 thinly sliced garlic cloves
- 1 cup packed, chopped fresh coriander
- 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander seed
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon (optional) dried chili flakes
Instructions
- Score each baby eggplant lengthways in two directions without cutting through the stem — a cross-shaped incision that allows oil and seasonings to penetrate.
- Heat olive oil in a wide heavy pan or braiser over medium heat. Add eggplants and cook, turning occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden on all sides.
- Add sliced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes, ground coriander, salt, and chili flakes if using. Stir to combine.
- Cover the pan, reduce heat to low, and braise for 20–25 minutes until the eggplants are completely tender when pierced with a knife and the tomato has reduced to a thick sauce.
- Add fresh coriander and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat the eggplants without breaking them.
- Transfer to a serving dish. Serve warm or at room temperature — this dish is not eaten hot.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step voice narration guides you hands-free. Faten's Idlib recipes carry her own Syrian-Arabic narration. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Frequently Asked Questions
What is Batinjan bil Zeit?
Baby eggplants braised whole in fragrant olive oil with tomato, garlic, and coriander until they collapse into silky submission — a dish of extraordinary depth from the simplest of pantry ingredients.
Where is Batinjan bil Zeit from?
Batinjan bil Zeit comes from Lebanese South. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Batinjan bil Zeit vegetarian or vegan?
As written, Batinjan bil Zeit uses only plant-based ingredients, so it is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. Always double-check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.
What can I use instead of ground coriander seed in Batinjan bil Zeit?
The ground coriander seed called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Batinjan bil Zeit its authentic character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with Batinjan bil Zeit?
In a Lebanese appetizers spread, Batinjan bil Zeit is served as part of a mezze table — alongside warm pita or markook bread, other small dishes, and fresh vegetables. It also works as a starter before a larger meal.
Can I make Batinjan bil Zeit ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
Yes — leftovers keep well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat gently (or bring to room temperature for cold dishes) and taste to adjust seasoning before serving. Dishes with fresh herbs or dressing are freshest the day they are made.