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Eggplant Parmesan
On December 15, 2023 by userEggplant Parmesan, also known as Melanzane alla Parmigiana, is a classic Italian dish that features layers of breaded and fried eggplant slices, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. Here’s a recipe for making Eggplant Parmesan at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Salt, for sprinkling on the eggplant
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned breadcrumbs work well)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 4 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep the Eggplant:
- Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Breading Station:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in the third.
- Bread and Fry the Eggplant:
- Pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels. Dredge each slice in flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then coat it with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the Eggplant Parmesan:
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Place a layer of fried eggplant slices over the sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese over the eggplant.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of marinara sauce and a generous amount of shredded cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Let the Eggplant Parmesan rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve the Eggplant Parmesan slices on plates, and enjoy!
This Eggplant Parmesan recipe makes a hearty and satisfying meal. Serve it with a side of pasta or a green salad for a complete Italian-inspired dinner.