Aubergine and Walnut Phyllo Pie

Ingredients for Aubergine and Walnut Phyllo Pie

• 3 (1-pound) aubergines, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch-thick rounds

• About 350ml olive oil, divided

• 3 medium leeks (white and pale green parts only)

• 475ml coarsely grated _gravié_ra or sharp white Cheddar (140g)

• 180ml coarsely grated Kefalotyri or Pecorino Romano (70g)

• 230g walnuts (160g), chopped

• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

• 20 (12- by 7-inch) phyllo sheets, thawed if frozen

How to make Aubergine and Walnut Phyllo Pie

Sprinkle aubergine with 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and drain in a colander 30 minutes; pat dry.

Heat 45ml oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then fry aubergine in batches, adding about 45ml oil per batch and turning once, until tender and golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes total per batch. Drain on paper towels and cool to room temperature. Wipe skillet clean.

Preheat oven to 191°C with rack in middle.

Halve leeks lengthwise and thinly slice. Wash and drain.

Cook leeks in 2 tablespoons oil in skillet over medium heat until golden, 7 to 9 minutes. Transfer to a bowl.

Chop aubergine; add to leeks with cheeses, nuts, cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.

Trim phyllo sheets into 9-inch squares. Cover stack of phyllo with plastic wrap and a damp kitchen towel. Layer 10 sheets in a 9-inch square baking dish, lightly brushing each sheet with oil. Spread filling on top, then cover with remaining phyllo, brushing each sheet with oil.

Cut several slits in phyllo (to vent) and bake until puffed and golden brown, 45 to 50 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.