Fried Eggplant Coated with Cheese and Tomato Sauce
Layered Wonders: A Taste of Eggplant Parmesan
\,**For food lovers seeking a mouthwatering dish with a delightful twist, allow me to introduce you to Eggplant Parmesan, a delightful Italian classic!** This fabulous recipe offers a variety of options to make it yours, from globe eggplants to special ingredient twists. Let's embark on this culinary adventure together!
The lip-smacking Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 medium globe eggplants, sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups panko, Japanese-style breadcrumbs (available in most grocery stores)
- 1 cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 1 ½ cups tomato sauce (either homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced (about 8 oz. total)
- Olive oil, for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Eggplant: Salt the slices to draw out moisture, then rinse and pat dry.
- Dredge Eggplant Slices: Dip each slice in flour, then egg, and finally the panko mixture. Ensure a thorough coating at each step. Line a tray with paper towels and set a wire rack over the towels; set aside.
- Fry Eggplant Slices: Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a deep skillet or frying pan. When the oil is hot (350°F on a candy/fat thermometer), fry the slices in batches until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the heat and place on the wire rack.
- Assemble and Bake: Line a baking dish with the fried eggplant slices, alternating with layers of tomato sauce, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella. Repeat until all the ingredients are used up.
- Cook: Broil the dish in the oven until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and speckled with gold. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Serve immediately with extra tomato sauce on the side.
Baking Dish Size:
A rectangular 8 x 8-inch (23 x 33 cm) baking dish is ideal for this recipe.
Sumptuous Variations:
- Exquisite Baked Eggplant Parmesan: Consider using Japanese eggplants for their delicate flavor and thin skin. However, globe eggplants will work well too. If you're using globe eggplants, use a larger baking dish to accommodate the larger slices.
- Baked Eggplant Parmesan with Ground Meat: Add browned ground beef or ground turkey to the tomato sauce layer for an added protein boost.
- Vegan Delights: Swap out the cheese for plant-based alternatives or add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Gluten-Free Parmesan Delight: Ensure your breadcrumbs and tomato sauce are gluten-free. Panko is naturally gluten-free, making this a quick adjustment.
- Eggplant Parmesan with Mushrooms: Add sliced or chopped mushrooms to the layers to enhance the flavor profile.
Extra Crunch and a Tip:
For improved texture, fry or bake the eggplant slices before assembling the dish. This method ensures a crisp exterior while maintaining a soft interior. Don't forget to preheat your baking dish before using it in the oven to help the Eggplant Parmesan cook evenly. Enjoy!
This Eggplant Parmesan recipe serves as a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish, offering variations to cater to diverse tastes. From Japan's delicate eggplants to baked versions with ground meat or vegan alternatives, there is a version that suits everyone's nutritional needs. With a yield of approximately 4-6 servings, this dish is perfect for uncategorized occasions as a hearty main course. The detailed instructions, plus tips for even cooking and improved texture, ensure a successful culinary experience.
