Romanian Eggplant Spread (Salata De Vinate) |
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Prep Time: 20 Minutes Cook Time: 15 Minutes |
Ready In: 35 Minutes Servings: 6 |
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This is the recipe for Salata de Vinate that I learned when I lived in Romania in the late 90's. It is DELICIOUS!!!! It is something I still get cravings for and is a nice change from its middle eastern cousins. To get the real flavor you must cook the eggplant on an open flame. Ingredients:
2 lbs eggplants |
1/2 cup mayonnaise |
1 small onion, very finely diced |
salt, to taste |
sliced tomato, for garnish |
Directions:
1. Place eggplant over open flame (gas stove or grill).
2. Carefully turn to ensure all the skin on eggplants are completely charred. They will look black and be very limp and soft from end to end.
3. Immediately remove charred skin by placing them under cool running water. Pick off as many of the burnt bits as possible.
4. Place eggplant in a colander and sprinkle with 1-2 teaspoons of salt. Allow moisture to drain off for at least 10 minutes.
5. Place eggplant on a non-metal surface (wood is best) and chop with a WOOD (or plastic) chopping knife until it is pretty much pureed. In Romania every kitchen has a special wooden knife specifically for this purpose. I have used my hard plastic bread dough tool. DO NOT USE METAL it will react with the eggplant and give it a funky flavor.
6. Place into a NON-METAL bowl and blend in mayonnaise and onion with a non-metal utensil until you have a smooth mixture.
7. Serve on crusty bread with a slice of ripe tomato on top.
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