Eggplant Parmesan. Just the name conjures up images of gooey melted cheese, crispy eggplant, and a rich tomato sauce, all layered together in a symphony of flavors. This Italian-American classic is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Easy to Make: While it might seem intimidating, Eggplant Parmesan is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of eggplant, tomato sauce, cheese, and herbs creates a truly unforgettable taste.
Versatile: You can adjust the recipe to your liking. Add different cheeses, use different types of breading, or even make it vegetarian or vegan.
Perfect for a Crowd: Eggplant Parmesan is a great dish to make for a large group, as it can easily be scaled up.
Eggplant Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Eggplant:
2 large eggplants
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
For the Tomato Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese:
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggplant:
Slice: Cut the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick slices.
Salt: Sprinkle both sides of the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This helps prevent the eggplant from becoming too oily when frying.
Rinse: Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Breading: Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
2. Fry the Eggplant:
Heat Oil: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Fry: Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Remove them from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Tomato Sauce:
Sauté: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Simmer: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
4. Assemble the Eggplant Parmesan:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Layer: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange a layer of eggplant slices, then top with some mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce and cheese.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the eggplant is heated through.
6. Serve: Let the Eggplant Parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
For crispier eggplant: You can bake the breaded eggplant slices in the oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes before assembling the dish.
Add some heat: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for a spicy kick.
Get creative with cheese: Use a combination of cheeses, such as provolone, ricotta salata, or even goat cheese.
Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the tomato sauce.
Make it vegan: Use vegan cheese and omit the egg wash.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve Eggplant Parmesan with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne.
Enjoy it with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping in the sauce.
Pair it with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Conclusion
Eggplant Parmesan is a dish that is sure to impress. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a true culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and can be adapted to your own preferences. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and comforting meal.
