Iman Bayildi

The title of this famous aubergine dish translates as ‘the Iman fainted’ – whether at the scent or savour of the dish is not certain; some have reckoned it was the cost which caused the dramatic reaction. Though the price of olive oil goes up, aubergines seem to be cheaper every year, and I have managed to grow them surprisingly well under glass in England. In France, in the south, like most vegetables, they are good value.

I prefer to halve the aubergines and cut into them like the