Tepsi Baytinijan
traditional dishes
About
Tepsi baytinijan is a classic Iraqi baked eggplant casserole layered with tender potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and spiced minced lamb or beef, all slow-baked in a tangy garlic-infused tomato sauce.
Key Ingredients
Eggplants, ground lamb or beef, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, garlic, tomato paste, Iraqi baharat, lemon juice or pomegranate molasses.
Cultural Significance
A cornerstone of Iraqi everyday home cooking, tepsi baytinijan brings families together for Friday lunches and Ramadan iftars, showcasing Mesopotamia's rich agricultural produce and culinary tradition of balancing savory meats with tangy notes.
Where to Find
Home kitchens across Iraq from Mosul to Basra; traditional Iraqi family-style restaurants and cultural eateries in Baghdad.
Fun Facts
The name 'tepsi' refers to the shallow round metal baking tray used across Iraq; slicing the eggplants with alternating 'zebra stripes' helps keep their shape without making them tough.
Gallery
