The Ultimate Guide to Hünkar Beğendi Ingredient Breakdown Cooking Time and Calorie Count

Hünkar Beğendi is a classic dish from Ottoman cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds with its rich flavors. This delightful meal features a savory lamb stew served atop a creamy, smoky eggplant purée. Whether you are a seasoned cook or trying something new, this guide provides all the essentials for making Hünkar Beğendi, including detailed ingredient lists, cooking times, and calorie counts.

What is Hünkar Beğendi?

Hünkar Beğendi translates to “the Sultan liked it,” and it has a noble history linked to the royal kitchens of Turkey. The dish beautifully combines tender lamb with a velvety eggplant base, resulting in a comforting meal that evokes feelings of warmth and indulgence. It is perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners at home.

Ingredients List

Creating the magic of Hünkar Beğendi requires the following ingredients:

For the Lamb Stew:

• 500g lamb shoulder: Cut into bite-sized pieces (approximately 1,155 calories)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing (approximately 240 calories)

• 1 large onion: Finely chopped (approximately 45 calories)

• 2 cloves garlic: Minced (approximately 9 calories)

• 2 medium tomatoes: Peeled and chopped (approximately 36 calories)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds depth of flavor (approximately 30 calories)

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Provides warmth (approximately 8 calories)

• 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a hint of smokiness (approximately 6 calories)

• Salt and pepper: To taste

• 1-2 cups water or broth: For simmering the lamb until tender

  
  

For the Eggplant Purée:

• 2 large eggplants: Roasted until soft and charred (approximately 140 calories)

• 50g unsalted butter: For a rich finish (approximately 360 calories)

• 100g grated cheese (preferably kasseri or a similar melting cheese): Adds delightful flavor (approximately 400 calories)

• 1 cup milk: Ensures a creamy texture (approximately 150 calories)

• Salt and pepper: To taste

  
  

Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley or mint: Chopped for brightness (negligible calories)

  
  

This ingredient list serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes.

Total Caloric Information

The total calorie count for the entire recipe is approximately 2,618 calories. Divided among 6 servings, this amounts to about 436 calories per serving. This makes Hünkar Beğendi a hearty yet manageable meal option.

Cooking Time

Although making Hünkar Beğendi requires patience, the payoff in taste is well worth the effort. Here's how time breaks down:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes

• Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes

  
  

Cooking Process

1. Prepare the Lamb Stew:

   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

   • Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent.

   • Add lamb pieces and brown them on all sides, sealing in flavors.

   • Stir in chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, and paprika. Cook for about 5 minutes.

   • Season with salt and pepper, adding water or broth until the lamb is submerged.

   • Cover and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender.

   
   

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).

   • Prick eggplants with a fork and place them on a baking tray. Roast until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft, about 30-40 minutes.

   • After roasting, allow eggplants to cool slightly, peel off the skin, and place the flesh in a bowl.

   • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in roasted eggplant flesh.

   • Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth.

   • Mix in grated cheese, and season with salt and pepper.

   • In a serving dish, place a generous layer of eggplant purée.

   • Top with the lamb stew, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.

2. Make the Eggplant Purée:

   
   

3. Serve:

   
   

A close-up view of the delicious Hünkar Beğendi dish.

Tips for an Authentic Experience

• Roasting Eggplants: For a deeper flavor, consider roasting eggplants over an open flame, like on a gas burner, instead of the oven. This method enhances the smoky taste.

• Balancing Flavors: Taste as you go. A well-balanced dish has layers of flavor that complement each other beautifully.

  
  

• Serving Suggestions: Hünkar Beğendi pairs perfectly with warm pita bread or fluffy rice to soak up the rich sauce.

  
  

Variations to Try

While traditional Hünkar Beğendi features lamb, you can switch things up with these alternatives:

• Beef Version: Swap lamb for beef to maintain similar flavors and for a heartier twist.

• Vegetarian Option: Use mushrooms or lentils instead of meat for a delightful vegetarian creation. Be sure to use vegetable broth for the stew.

  
  

• Herbal Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or oregano into the stew for added aroma.

  
  

Common Questions

Can Hünkar Beğendi be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the individual components ahead of time. Store them separately, and reheat before serving to enjoy the best experience.

Is Hünkar Beğendi suitable for freezing?

Yes, the lamb stew freezes well. However, it's best to prepare the eggplant purée fresh. If you freeze the stew, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

How is Hünkar Beğendi traditionally served?

This dish frequently graces family tables during gatherings or special occasions, showcasing the warmth of Turkish hospitality.

A high angle view of the fresh ingredients laid out for preparing Hünkar Beğendi, emphasizing the freshness.

Wrapping Up

Hünkar Beğendi is not just a meal; it is a celebration of Turkish culinary heritage. With its simple yet refined ingredients, it creates a dish that is both filling and elegant. Whether you're enjoying it during a family gathering or a quiet evening at home, this recipe is sure to impress.

With this comprehensive guide, you're ready to cook a delicious authentic Hünkar Beğendi right from your kitchen. Enjoy your culinary adventure!