Eggplant Tacos
Ingredients
- ¼ cup olive oil
divided
- 1 small onion
chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves fresh garlic
minced
- ¼ jalapeno pepper
minced
- 1 eggplant
cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
such as Johnny's Seasoning Salt®
- 4 taco shells
Directions
- 1
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir onion, lemon juice, garlic, and jalapeno pepper into skillet; bring to a simmer and cook until onions soften, about 3 minutes.
- 2
Stir eggplant, cumin, paprika, chili powder, black pepper, and seasoned salt into onion mixture; drizzle remaining olive oil over the top. Cook, stirring occasionally, until eggplant reduces in size and softens, about 15 minutes. Spoon eggplant mixture into tortilla shells.
Eggplant Tacos
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Based on 37 ratings
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About this Recipe
Looking for a vibrant, flavorful taco night alternative that's surprisingly quick to prepare? These Eggplant Tacos deliver a savory, spiced experience that will delight your taste buds without a lot of fuss.
The magic here lies in the harmonious blend of robust spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder with the smoky depth of eggplant. Bright lemon juice and a touch of heat from jalapeno cut through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced filling that transforms simple ingredients into something special.
You can anticipate a delightful interplay of textures and tastes: tender, well-seasoned eggplant pieces, aromatic onion and garlic, all brought to life by a zesty squeeze of lemon. Each bite offers a satisfying warmth from the chili powder and a subtle kick from the minced jalapeno, beautifully encased in a crisp taco shell. This isn't just a meal; it's a flavorful adventure that proves plant-forward dishes can be incredibly exciting and fulfilling.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to experiment with this versatile base. While rich on its own, you could add black beans for extra protein or a diced bell pepper for more sweetness and crunch. If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the amount of jalapeno, or for a bolder kick, leave in some of the seeds. Don't have seasoned salt? Use a blend of salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.
These Eggplant Tacos make a fantastic weeknight dinner, perfect for family meals or a casual gathering with friends. Serve them simply as they are, or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.