A Fragrant Supper for One

Name: A Fragrant Supper for One
Yield: enough for 1
Ingredients: a large, firm eggplant; olive oil, a good everyday one; garlic – 2 cloves; yogurt, sheep’s if you can – 3 or 4 tablespoons; paprika – a pinch or two; mint leaves – a small palmful

December 14, 2011

I make the most of cooking just for myself, with a supper of intense frugality that might not appeal to others. A favorite is a bowl of white rice seasoned with Vietnamese fish sauce and masses of mint and cilantro, eaten from my most fragile and precious bowl. A humble meal of consummate purity. A baked eggplant may not sound like an indulgence, but its luxury and richness lie in its texture rather than its price. A simple supper that feels more expensive than it actually is. Some soft Middle Eastern bread would be good here.

Recipe notes

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