Crispy Eggplant with Savory Vegetable Filling and Tangy Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Eggplant Batter:

• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 eggplant, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Vegetable fat, for frying

For the Vegetable Filling:

• 1 carrot, grated
• 200 grams of mushrooms, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• Chives, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 200 grams of cheese, grated

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons yogurt
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon ketchup
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• Dill, chopped

Directions:

1. Prepare the Eggplant:
   • In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, and baking powder until smooth. Season the batter with salt and black pepper.
   • Dip each eggplant slice into the batter, ensuring each slice is well coated.
2. Fry the Eggplant:
   • Heat vegetable fat in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Fry the battered eggplant slices until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Vegetable Filling:
   • In the same skillet, add a little more vegetable fat if needed and sauté the grated carrot, sliced mushrooms, and chopped bell pepper until they are soft and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the chopped tomato and chives, cooking for another 2 minutes until the tomatoes are just soft.
   • Turn off the heat and stir in the grated cheese until it melts slightly.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, mayonnaise, ketchup, minced garlic, and chopped dill. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble and Serve:
   • Place a few eggplant slices on each plate. Top with a generous amount of the vegetable filling.
   • Drizzle the creamy sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with crusty bread or rice for added texture and sustenance.
• Garnish with extra dill or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
• Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for a richer flavor.
• Substitute vegetable fat with olive oil for a healthier option.