Smoky Roasted Eggplant with Cuban Mojo Sauce

Smoky Roasted Eggplant with Cuban Mojo Sauce

Tender eggplant wedges roasted until caramelised and smoky, then drizzled with a vibrant Cuban mojo sauce bursting with citrus, garlic, and aromatic spices. This Spanish BBQ-inspired dish is completely plant-based and gluten-free, perfect as a hearty side or light main course.

Ingredients
[ ] 2 medium eggplants, halved lengthways (each half cut into 4 wedges)
[ ] 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (for roasting)
[ ] 1/2 tbsp paprika
[ ] Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
[ ] 8 cloves garlic, minced
[ ] 2/3 cup fresh sour orange juice (or 1/3 cup fresh orange juice and 1/3 cup fresh lime juice)
[ ] 1/3 cup olive oil (for mojo sauce)
[ ] 1/2 tsp dried oregano
[ ] 1/2 tsp ground cumin
[ ] Fresh coriander or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
[ ] 1. Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan) / 425°F / Gas Mark 7. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
Arrange the eggplant wedges on the prepared tray, flesh side up. Brush generously with the 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
Sprinkle the wedges evenly with the paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Roast for 30–35 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the eggplant is golden brown, tender, and slightly charred at the edges.
While the eggplant roasts, heat the 1/3 cup olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden
[ ] 2. do not let it burn.
Remove the pan from the heat and carefully stir in the sour orange juice (or the orange and lime juice mixture), dried oregano, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper — the sauce will sizzle slightly. Whisk well to combine.
Arrange the roasted eggplant wedges on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the warm mojo sauce, allowing it to pool around the wedges.
Garnish with fresh coriander or parsley if desired, and serve immediately while warm.

https://www.cuisinesavvy.com/recipe/smoky-roasted-eggplant-with-cuban-mojo-sauce