Sataras is a traditional Mediterranean dish that brings together the flavors of summer vegetables, making it a perfect side dish or light main meal. The combination of fresh vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and peppers, along with a touch of mozzarella, creates a hearty and satisfying dish. Paired with buttered rice, it's truly a comforting meal. Here’s how you can make it!
Ingredients:
For the Sataras:
- 1 eggplant
- 1 zucchini
- 1 yellow zucchini (or substitute with potatoes)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 large tomato
- 1 onion
- 2-3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Mediterranean spice mix
- Olive oil
- 1 small cup of water
- 5-6 small mozzarella balls
For the Rice:
- 1 cup rice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and vegeta (or seasoning of your choice)
- A pinch of turmeric (optional)
- 2 cups water
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Sataras:
- Slice the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, then sauté them in olive oil until softened.
- Add the tomato paste, a splash of water, and mix everything together.
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and pour in the sautéed onion and pepper mixture.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash the remaining vegetables (eggplant, zucchini, and tomato). Slice them into thin rounds.
- Layer the vegetables in the dish in any order you like, alternating between the different types. Season with salt, pepper, and Mediterranean spices, then drizzle with olive oil.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 45 minutes.
Add the Mozzarella:
- After 45 minutes, remove the dish from the oven, arrange the mozzarella on top of the vegetables, and return it to the oven for another 10 minutes to melt the cheese.
Prepare the Rice:
- While the Sataras bakes, wash the rice well. In a saucepan, melt a little butter and sauté the finely chopped onion until soft.
- Add the rice, and stir-fry it for a couple of minutes.
- Season with salt, vegeta, and turmeric (if using). Add 1 cup of water and stir. Let the rice simmer on low heat until the water is absorbed.
- Once the rice has absorbed the water, add another cup of water and cook for a few more minutes until the rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Add a little butter and finely chopped parsley, then mix everything together.
Serve:
- To serve, butter a small cup and press some rice into it. Carefully turn the cup upside down in the center of the baked vegetables to form a nice rice dome.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy the dish as a flavorful main course or a perfect side dish for meat.
This hearty Sataras with Rice is full of flavors and can easily be made into a satisfying meal. It's a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a comforting dish with Mediterranean flavors. Serve it with some grilled meat if you like, and you’ll have a meal that everyone will love!
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