Eggplant and Pomegranate Stew (With Beef or Lamb)

Adapted from May S. Bsisu's fantastic book, "The Arab Table," this recipe for a hearty and exotic stew features classic Arab flavor combinations and is very filling and healthful. NOTE: ground beef may be substituted in equal amounts for the ground lamb and the recipe will still be outstanding!

• Ready In: 2 hrs
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 3  lbs eggplants
• 1  tablespoon salt
• 2  teaspoons salt
• 4  tablespoons  vegetable oil
• 2  lbs ground lamb
• 1  teaspoon black pepper
• 1⁄2 teaspoon allspice
• 2  onions
• 1  lb carrot
• 1  bell pepper
• 2  tablespoons tomato paste
• 3  garlic cloves
• 2  tablespoons pomegranate syrup
• 1  teaspoon dried mint

Directions

1. Start a pot of water to boil. While waiting for it to boil, do the next steps.
2. Halve the eggplants and chop roughly into 1-inch chunks. Place in colander and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of salt all over. Set in the sink to drain.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of the vegetable oil in a large pot over high heat. Add the lamb (or beef) and cook, stirring frequently, until brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Add 1/2 teaspoon on the black pepper and the 1/2 teaspoon of allspice, and turn the meat to coat it in the spices.
4. Add the now-boiling water to cover by 1 inch. Bring the mixture back to a boil, skimming the foam from the surface. Cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 30 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, chop the carrots into 1-inch think rounds and the bell pepper into 10inch pieces.
6. Heat remaining 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and saute until they release their juices and are soft, about 5 minutes.
7. Pat the eggplant dry. Add the eggplant, carrots, and bell pepper and cook until they are soft, about 10 minutes. Add the tomato paste and the meat with its liquid, and give the mixture a good stir.
8. Add the remaining black pepper and bring the stew to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, cover the pot, and let cook about 30-45 minutes.
9. Mash or mince the garlic and stir it in along with the pomegranate syrup, mint, and remaining 2 teaspoons salt. Taste, and adjust seasonging as needed.
10. Serve with rice or eat with bread.