Eggplant Parmesan

Introduction

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for a cozy dinner with family and friends. This recipe is easy to make and is sure to become a family favorite. In this post, we’ll go over everything you need to know to make a delicious Eggplant Parmesan at home.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Eggplant Parmesan for four people:

• 2 large eggplants
• Salt
• 2 cups (480 mL) of tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup (120 mL) of olive oil
• 1/2 cup (50 g) of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (50 g) of grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (60 g) of all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups (200 g) of breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice the eggplants into 1/4 inch rounds, sprinkle each slice with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes to remove any bitterness.

3. While the eggplants are sitting, prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.

4. Dip each eggplant slice in flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.

5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the eggplant slices until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. You may need to work in batches.

6. In a baking dish, layer tomato sauce, eggplant slices, and grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until you run out of eggplant slices, making sure that the top layer is cheese.

7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the eggplant is tender.

8. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Eggplant Parmesan!

Variations

If you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan version of Eggplant Parmesan, you can substitute the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese with vegan cheese alternatives. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

If you want to make a healthier version of Eggplant Parmesan, you can bake the eggplant slices instead of frying them. Simply brush each slice with olive oil and bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Conclusion

Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious and classic Italian dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner with family and friends. With this easy recipe, you can make a homemade Eggplant Parmesan that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you make it as a vegetarian main dish or as a side dish, Eggplant Parmesan is always a crowd-pleaser.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella for Eggplant Parmesan?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Some other options include provolone, Parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

Do I need to salt the eggplant before cooking?

It is recommended to salt the eggplant before cooking to remove any bitterness and excess moisture. Simply slice the eggplant, sprinkle salt over the slices, and let them sit for 30 minutes. Rinse the slices with water and pat them dry before cooking.

Can I make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

How can I make Eggplant Parmesan gluten-free?

To make Eggplant Parmesan gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds. You can also leave out the breadcrumbs altogether and simply coat the eggplant in flour or cornmeal.

Can I use a different type of tomato sauce for Eggplant Parmesan?

Yes, you can use a different type of tomato sauce if you prefer. Some other options include marinara sauce, arrabbiata sauce, or even a homemade tomato sauce.

Can I fry the eggplant instead of baking it?

Yes, you can fry the eggplant instead of baking it. Simply coat the eggplant slices in flour, dip them in beaten eggs, and coat them in breadcrumbs. Fry in hot oil until golden brown on both sides.

Can I freeze Eggplant Parmesan?

Yes, you can freeze Eggplant Parmesan for up to 2 months. Simply assemble the dish, but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Bake as directed in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of eggplant for Eggplant Parmesan?

Yes, you can use a different type of eggplant if you prefer. Some other options include Japanese eggplant or Sicilian eggplant. Just be sure to slice the eggplant thinly for even cooking.

Can I make Eggplant Parmesan without cheese?

Yes, you can make Eggplant Parmesan without cheese if you prefer. Simply omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs if you prefer. Just keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you will need to use less of them. Use about 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh herbs.