Eggplant Parmigiana, also known as Eggplant Parmesan, is a classic Italian dish made with layers of fried eggplant slices, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. It's a popular dish that is enjoyed around the world, and it's easy to make at home. In this article, we'll explore the traditional way to make eggplant parmigiana, as well as some delicious variations that you can try.
What is Eggplant Parmigiana?
Eggplant Parmigiana is a popular Italian dish made with layers of fried eggplant slices, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. It's often served as a main course, but can also be enjoyed as a side dish. The dish originated in the region of Campania, in southern Italy, and has since spread around the world.
Ingredients Needed
The traditional recipe for eggplant parmigiana calls for a few simple ingredients: eggplant, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. To make the dish, the eggplant slices are lightly fried in olive oil, then layered with the tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. The dish is then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making eggplant parmigiana is a fairly simple process. Here's a step-by-step guide to making this classic Italian dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
Start by washing and slicing the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick slices. Place the slices on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Let the eggplant slices sit for about 30 minutes, then rinse them off and pat them dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Fry the Eggplant
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, fry the eggplant slices until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer the fried eggplant slices to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange a single layer of eggplant slices over the sauce. Top the eggplant slices with a thin layer of tomato sauce, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layering process until all of the eggplant slices are used up.
Step 4: Bake the Eggplant Parmigiana
Bake the eggplant parmigiana in a preheated 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the eggplant parmigiana cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Variations
Eggplant parmigiana is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some delicious variations to try:
Vegetarian Eggplant Parmigiana
For a vegetarian version of eggplant parmigiana, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and replace it with vegan cheese. You can also add a layer of cooked vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
Eggplant Parmigiana Sandwich
To make an eggplant parmigiana sandwich, layer fried eggplant slices, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese between two slices of toasted Italian bread. Place the sandwich on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Eggplant Parmigiana Pizza
To make an eggplant parmigiana pizza, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on a prepared pizza crust. Top with fried eggplant slices, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Origin of Eggplant Parmigiana?
Eggplant Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that originated in the region of Campania, in southern Italy.
What are Some Variations of Eggplant Parmigiana?
Eggplant parmigiana can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. It can also be made into a sandwich or pizza. Vegetarian versions can be made by omitting the Parmesan cheese and replacing it with vegan cheese.
How Do You Make Eggplant Parmigiana?
Making eggplant parmigiana is a fairly simple process. Start by washing and slicing the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick slices. Fry the eggplant slices in olive oil until they are golden brown on both sides. Then assemble layers of fried eggplant slices, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How Do You Serve Eggplant Parmigiana?
Eggplant parmigiana can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It can be served hot or at room temperature. It can also be served with a side of pasta, rice, or salad.
Is Eggplant Parmigiana Healthy?
Eggplant Parmigiana can be a healthy dish if made with healthy ingredients. Be sure to use good quality olive oil when frying the eggplant, and use low-fat mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. You can also add extra vegetables to the dish, such as zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
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