Ingredients and preparation
To create a delicious Eggplant Parmesan, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- Salt, for sweating the eggplants
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Olive oil, for frying
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
- Start by slicing the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay them out on a baking sheet and sprinkle both sides generously with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to sweat out excess moisture. This step helps to remove any bitterness and ensures a better texture.
- After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove the salt. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge each eggplant slice first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the eggplant slices to ensure they adhere well.
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches, cooking each side until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the fried eggplant slices to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Cooking instructions
Once the eggplant slices are fried and ready, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, take a large baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This will prevent the eggplant from sticking and add extra flavor to the base of your dish.
Begin layering the eggplant slices in the baking dish. Start with a single layer of fried eggplant slices, then spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese and a bit of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat these layers until all the eggplant slices are used up, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and a final sprinkling of both cheeses.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt beautifully. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
Once the Eggplant Parmesan is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the dish to set and makes it easier to slice and serve. For an added touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top just before serving.
Serving suggestions and variations
Eggplant Parmesan is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit different occasions and preferences. Here are some serving suggestions and variations to elevate your Eggplant Parmesan experience:
- Classic Style: Serve the Eggplant Parmesan as a main course with a side of spaghetti or your favorite pasta. The marinara sauce from the dish pairs perfectly with the pasta, creating a cohesive and satisfying meal.
- Sandwich: For a more casual option, use the Eggplant Parmesan to make a hearty sandwich. Place a slice of the baked eggplant between two pieces of crusty Italian bread or a soft ciabatta roll. Add a bit of extra marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a delicious handheld meal.
- Vegetarian Delight: Enhance the dish by adding layers of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers between the eggplant slices. These vegetables add extra flavor and nutrition, making the dish even more wholesome.
- Gluten-Free Option: For those with gluten sensitivities, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the marinara sauce, are also gluten-free.
- Low-Carb Version: To reduce the carbohydrate content, skip the breading process and bake the eggplant slices directly. You can also use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lower-carb breading alternative.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese to add unique flavors to your Eggplant Parmesan. Try using provolone, fontina, or even a bit of gorgonzola for a twist on the traditional recipe.
- Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, prepare individual servings of Eggplant Parmesan in ramekins or small baking dishes. This is perfect for dinner parties or special occasions, allowing each guest to have their own beautifully presented portion.
- Herb Infusion: Add a variety of fresh herbs to the breadcrumb mixture or sprinkle them between the layers. Fresh oregano, thyme, or rosemary can add a delightful aromatic touch to the dish.
These serving suggestions and variations allow you to customize Eggplant Parmesan to your taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile and beloved dish for any occasion.