Eggplants Stuffed with Shrimp

In Ukraine, the faintly exotic eggplant is usually sliced and fried or oven-roasted, but many times it is served stuffed with equally exotic ingredients, especially in southern Ukraine. In this case, the shrimp stuffing is punctuated with pine nuts, currants, and chopped mint, rendering a rich-tasting succulent yet light entrée. Delicious served hot on a bed of steamed rice or cold with plenty of fresh lemon wedges, it also makes a delightful and different appetizer.