Ingredients
To make the perfect Eggplant Parmesan, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that come together to create the layers of flavor. Here’s a quick list:
- Eggplant: Choose firm, fresh eggplants with smooth, unblemished skin. You’ll need 2 medium eggplants, peeled and sliced into rounds.
- Breadcrumbs: A mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs gives the dish the ideal texture—crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside.
- Eggs: Used to help the breadcrumbs stick to the eggplant slices.
- Marinara Sauce: Homemade or store-bought, a rich tomato-based sauce is the backbone of this dish.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella provides a creamy, stretchy texture that melts perfectly.
- Parmesan Cheese: For a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the richness of the mozzarella.
- Olive Oil: Used for frying the eggplant slices and adding flavor.
Optional additions:
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a touch of herby freshness.
- Garlic: Minced garlic can be added to the marinara sauce or sprinkled over the eggplant for an extra kick.
Preparing the Eggplant
To begin, the eggplant slices need to be prepared properly to ensure they cook up crispy and delicious. First, slice the eggplant into about 1/4-inch rounds. After slicing, you can sprinkle the eggplant slices with a little salt and let them sit for about 20-30 minutes. This step helps to draw out any bitterness from the eggplant and helps it absorb less oil during frying.
Once the eggplant slices have released some moisture, pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures the breading will stick better and that you won’t end up with soggy eggplant. Now, you’re ready to coat the eggplant.
Bread the Eggplant
The breading process is where the magic happens. You’ll need three shallow bowls:
- Flour: For dredging the eggplant slices, which helps the egg wash stick.
- Egg Wash: Whisk a couple of eggs together with a tablespoon of water or milk. This will coat the eggplant slices before they’re dipped into the breadcrumbs.
- Breadcrumbs: Mix together panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs for that perfect combination of crunch and softness. Season the breadcrumbs with salt, pepper, and some dried Italian herbs like oregano or basil for added flavor.
To bread the eggplant, first dip each slice in the flour, coating it evenly. Then, dip it into the egg wash, and finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well to the eggplant.
Frying the Eggplant
Once the eggplant slices are breaded, it’s time to fry them. Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that the eggplant sizzles when it hits the pan, but not so hot that it burns the breading before the eggplant has a chance to cook through.
Fry the eggplant slices in batches, turning them to ensure they are golden and crispy on both sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once fried, transfer the eggplant to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Assembling the Dish
Now that your eggplant is ready, it’s time to bring everything together in a baking dish. Here’s the fun part—layering! Start by spreading a small amount of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Then, layer the fried eggplant slices over the sauce, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all of the eggplant slices are used up.
Top the final layer with extra marinara sauce, a sprinkling of mozzarella and Parmesan, and a few fresh basil leaves. This will create a beautiful, cheesy crust as the dish bakes.
Baking the Eggplant Parmesan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the assembled dish for about 25-30 minutes. The goal is for the cheese to melt, bubble, and become golden brown on top. If you want an extra crispy crust, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Once it’s out of the oven, let the dish sit for 10 minutes to cool slightly before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to slice. When you cut into it, you’ll see layers of crispy eggplant, gooey cheese, and rich marinara sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Conclusion
Eggplant Parmesan is a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and joy to any table. With its layers of crispy eggplant, melty cheese, and tangy marinara sauce, it’s a meal everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.
The best part? It’s simple to make, and with a few tips and tricks, you’ll be able to perfect your Eggplant Parmesan every time. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in this delicious, homemade Italian classic.
