Sultan’s Delight (Hünkar Beğendi) Recipe: A Regal Turkish Dish
Sultan’s Delight, known as Hünkar Beğendi in Turkish, is a traditional Ottoman dish that combines tender lamb stew with a creamy, smoky eggplant purée. This dish, which translates to “The Sultan Liked It,” has been a staple in Turkish cuisine for centuries and is renowned for its rich flavors and luxurious texture. With its origins in the royal kitchens of the Ottoman Empire, Hünkar Beğendi continues to be a favorite for special occasions and gatherings. Follow this recipe to bring a taste of Turkish royalty to your table.
Ingredients for Sultan’s Delight (Hünkar Beğendi)
For the lamb stew:
- 500g lamb shoulder, cubed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
For the eggplant purée:
- 2 large eggplants
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions for Making Hünkar Beğendi
- Prepare the Lamb Stew
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they are soft and translucent. Add the cubed lamb shoulder to the pot and brown on all sides. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, allowing the mixture to cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes begin to break down. Season with ground cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and bring the stew to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the flavors have melded together. - Prepare the Eggplant Purée
While the lamb is cooking, prepare the eggplant purée. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Prick the eggplants with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Roast the eggplants in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is charred and the flesh is very soft. Once roasted, allow the eggplants to cool slightly before peeling off the skin and scooping the flesh into a bowl.In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for a minute, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens. Add the roasted eggplant flesh, grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend everything together until smooth, using an immersion blender or regular blender if needed. Cook for a few more minutes until the purée is heated through and has reached a creamy consistency. - Serve the Dish
To serve, spoon a generous portion of the eggplant purée onto each plate, spreading it out to form a bed. Top with the lamb stew, making sure to include some of the rich sauce from the stew. Garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired. - Tips for the Perfect Sultan’s Delight
- Eggplant Preparation: For a smokier flavor, consider grilling the eggplants instead of roasting them.
- Lamb Selection: Use a well-marbled cut of lamb for the most tender and flavorful stew.
- Consistency: If the eggplant purée is too thick, you can thin it with a bit more milk until you reach the desired consistency.
What Makes Sultan’s Delight Special?
Sultan’s Delight is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Turkish culinary tradition. The combination of the rich, savory lamb stew with the creamy, smoky eggplant purée creates a luxurious dining experience. This dish not only embodies the essence of Ottoman cuisine but also brings a touch of royalty to any dining table. Whether served for a special occasion or as a comforting weeknight meal, Hünkar Beğendi is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and elegant presentation.
Conclusion
Creating Sultan’s Delight (Hünkar Beğendi) at home allows you to experience a piece of Turkish history with every bite. This regal dish, with its tender lamb and creamy eggplant purée, is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy an authentic taste of Ottoman cuisine. By following this recipe, you’ll be able to bring the flavors of the sultanate into your own kitchen, delighting family and friends with a dish that has been cherished for generations.
