Eggplant Parmesan

Let's Make Eggplant Parmesan !

Ever find yourself craving proper Italian comfort food ? Then, let's make eggplant parmesan ! This beauty is Oven Baked Eggplant Parmesan and it will change your life.

Parmigiana di Melanzane , a proper family recipe, is what we are cooking. The origin is shrouded in mystery. Some say it's Sicilian! But trust me, it's tasty.

This falls under easy eggplant recipes ! It will take about an hour and a half from start to finish and it makes six hearty servings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe: The Benefits

Honestly, this isn't just tasty it also has some perks!. Eggplant is surprisingly nutritious. A Best Eggplant Parmesan can be served for any occasion: Sunday supper with the family, a potluck with friends, or a cosy night in.

Homemade tomato sauce just elevates it!

Get Ready for the Best Eggplant Parmesan!

Okay, let's be real. We're making Crispy Eggplant Parmesan . You know eggplant parmesan recipes easy are the best! I used to think eggplant parmesan was too fiddly.

But not anymore! Let's dive into what makes my recipe so special: First is the eggplant preparation. The other secret? My homemade tomato sauce ! But before we get ahead of ourselves, let's look at the ingredients.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Eggplant Parmesan

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up some seriously good Eggplant Parmesan . This isn't rocket science, but quality ingredients make all the difference.

Honestly, the first time I made this, I skimped on the tomatoes and it was a total letdown. Lesson learned! So, gather your bits and bobs, and let's get started!

Main Ingredients: The Starring Roles

• Eggplant: You'll need 2 large eggplants, about 1 kg in total. Slice 'em into 1/4 inch ( 6 mm ) rounds. Smaller is better! No one likes a bulky slice. Quality matters here. You want firm, shiny eggplants without blemishes.
• Salt: A tablespoon ( 15 ml ) of kosher salt. Don't be shy with it!
• Flour: 1 cup ( 125 g ) of all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting.
• Eggs: 3 large eggs, beaten. Give 'em a good whisk!
• Breadcrumbs: 2 cups ( 200g ) of Italian style breadcrumbs. Look for the coarse ones; they get extra crispy.
• Parmesan: 1/2 cup ( 50g ) of grated Parmesan cheese for the breadcrumbs and another 1/2 cup ( 50g ) for layering.
• Oregano & Garlic: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml ) of dried oregano and 1/2 teaspoon ( 2.5 ml ) of garlic powder.
• Veggie Oil: 1/2 cup ( 120 ml ) of vegetable oil for frying. You might need more.

Seasoning Notes: Italian Aromatics

We're aiming for that classic Italian comfort food taste here. Don't be afraid to experiment with your spice rack!

• Tomato Sauce Base: Olive oil and minced garlic are essential. Sauté 'em until fragrant that's the foundation of flavor!
• Tomato Sauce Extras: 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust to your taste! I like mine a little spicy!
• Cheese, Cheese, Cheese: Fresh mozzarella cheese is a must for that melty goodness. Don’t skip it!

Equipment Needed: No Fancy Gadgets Required!

You don’t need a load of fancy kit for this, thankfully. Keep it simple. The easiest Eggplant Parmesan Recipes Easy are the best ones!

• Large baking sheet: Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Colander: For draining the eggplant. This is crucial!
• 3 shallow dishes: For the breading station.
• Large skillet: A good non-stick skillet works wonders.
• 9x13 inch baking dish: The perfect size for layering.

This Oven Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a fantastic recipe that provides all the comfort of a classic dish. You could even make a batch of Homemade tomato sauce to go with it.

Honestly, that’s my favourite thing to do. And don't forget this classic is one of the Vegetarian Italian dishes , suitable for everyone.

Now you're all set to create a truly memorable Crispy Eggplant Parmesan !

Cooking Method: Unlocking the Secrets to Best Eggplant Parmesan

Honestly, who doesn't love Eggplant Parmesan ? It's that Italian comfort food hug in a dish. Finding Eggplant Parmesan recipes easy is the goal, right? But making it great is about nailing the cooking method.

Forget soggy messes! We're going for crispy Eggplant Parmesan perfection.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place and More!

First things first: essential mise en place ! Get everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. Trust me, this saves so much time.

Slice those eggplants into 1/4 inch rounds. Sprinkle them generously with salt. This draws out excess water. Place them in a colander for at least 30 minutes.

Blot with paper towels later. Time saving organization tips like this are golden ! No one wants a watery Parmigiana di Melanzane .

Remember the safety reminders: Be careful when frying the eggplant! Hot oil is no joke.

step-by-step Process: Your Path to Oven Baked Eggplant Parmesan

1. Make a delicious homemade tomato sauce . Sauté minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat for about 2 minutes , until fragrant.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes , stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare your breading station. Have flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs in separate dishes.
4. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Make sure they're fully covered.
5. Fry the breaded eggplant in vegetable oil over medium heat until golden brown, about 2- 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
6. Assemble your Eggplant Parmesan in a baking dish. Layer sauce, eggplant, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat. Top with sauce and cheese.
7. Bake in a preheated 375° F ( 190° C) oven for 25- 30 minutes , or until bubbly and golden brown.

Pro Tips: From Novice to Eggplant Parmesan Ninja

Want to take your eggplant parmesan to the next level? Here's a pro tip: lightly toast your breadcrumbs before using.

It adds a nutty flavor. A common mistake? Overcrowding the frying pan. Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature up.

Making the sauce a day ahead is a great make-ahead option . What to serve with Best Eggplant Parmesan ? A simple side salad is really refreshing.

Honestly, this Easy Eggplant Recipes dish is a winner every time!

Recipe Notes for the Best Eggplant Parmesan

Alright, you've got the recipe for the Best Eggplant Parmesan now! Let's talk about some things that can really elevate this Italian comfort food and make it your own.

I want to help you achieve Crispy Eggplant Parmesan perfection. We'll cover serving ideas, storage, and even some sneaky variations.

What To Serve With Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan , or Parmigiana di Melanzane , is rich. Honestly, it's gorgeous on its own. But what to serve with Eggplant Parmesan ? I think a simple green salad is perfect.

It cuts through the richness nicely. A bit of crusty bread is a must for soaking up that homemade tomato sauce ! Thinking about drinks? A light Italian red wine would be fabbbb.

For plating, I like to keep it rustic. Just pile it high! A sprinkle of fresh basil brightens everything up. You know? It just screams Vegetarian Italian Dishes !

Storage Savvy

So, you've made a massive tray of Oven Baked Eggplant Parmesan . What's left? Pop it in the fridge. It’ll be good for up to three days.

Make sure it's in an airtight container, mind.

Fancy freezing it? You can! Cut it into individual portions first, then wrap them well. It’ll keep for about two months.

When reheating, the oven is best. It helps keep the eggplant crispy . Microwaving works in a pinch, though!

Variations: Your Eggplant Parmesan Recipes Easy Journey

Want to switch things up? Of course you do! For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Honestly, they work a treat.

Thinking of a seasonal swap? Use different cheeses! Ricotta, provolone... get creative! It can lead to the Best Eggplant Parmesan version that you can have.

There are so many Easy Eggplant Recipes online but this is the best by far.

Nutrition Breakdown: Not as Naughty as You Think

Okay, eggplant parmesan isn't exactly a salad, is it? But it's not a total diet disaster, either! Eggplant has fiber and vitamins.

The homemade tomato sauce is packed with antioxidants. Key health benefits? It is so much more than just feeling good from the comfort food.

Bottom line? Everything in moderation. Enjoy your eggplant parmesan ! Cooking this can be a really rewarding experience and I'm really grateful I can share with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my eggplant parmesan soggy? Nobody wants a soggy bottom!

Sogginess in eggplant parmesan usually boils down to excess moisture in the eggplant. Make sure you salt the eggplant slices generously and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to draw out the water. Pat them dry with paper towels before breading, like you're blotting away a little secret.

Can I make eggplant parmesan ahead of time? I'm not exactly Nigella Lawson with all that free time!

Absolutely! Eggplant parmesan is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge, unbaked. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through properly. It's a proper time saver, innit?

What's the best way to store leftover eggplant parmesan?

Leftover eggplant parmesan should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will generally keep for 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven for best results, or microwave it if you're in a pinch for time. It's almost as good (dare I say it?) the next day.

Is there a healthier way to make eggplant parmesan without sacrificing flavor?

You bet! Try grilling or baking the eggplant slices instead of frying them to significantly reduce the fat content. You can also use part skim mozzarella and reduce the amount of cheese overall. Another trick is to use less breadcrumbs and to toast them before coating the eggplant, so you can use less.

It's still a treat, just a slightly less naughty one.

Can I freeze eggplant parmesan?

Yes, you can freeze eggplant parmesan, though the texture might change slightly. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or placing it in a freezer safe container. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

It's a good way to save any extras for a rainy day.

I'm trying to go gluten-free can I still enjoy eggplant parmesan?

Good on you! Absolutely! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or a mix of almond flour and gluten-free seasonings for the breading. Ensure your tomato sauce doesn't contain any hidden gluten ingredients either.

The rest of the recipe should be naturally gluten-free, meaning you can tuck in without any worries!