30 May 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 30 min
Ingredients:
2 eggplant
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup tomato puree
2 cans canned tomatoes
1.50 cups grated parmesan cheese
Eggplant Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish that combines layers of tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and savory Parmesan cheese. This recipe takes you through the process of creating a homemade version of this delicious and comforting meal. It's a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggplants:
- Rinse the eggplants under cold water, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with paper towels.
- Sprinkle both sides lightly with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out any excess moisture and bitterness.
- After 30 minutes, pat the eggplants dry with paper towels.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- Finely chop the onion and garlic cloves.
- Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until it's soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato puree and canned tomatoes (crush the whole tomatoes with your hands before adding, if using whole canned tomatoes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes until it thickens.
3. Cook the Eggplants:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer.
- Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant slices are tender and lightly browned.
4. Assemble the Eggplant Parmigiana:
- Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.
- Add a layer of baked eggplant slices on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle a portion of the grated Parmesan cheese over the eggplants.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce and a generous topping of Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve:
- Let the Eggplant Parmigiana rest for about 10 minutes before serving to let it set.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Tips:
- Choose firm and glossy eggplants for the best texture and flavor.
- Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes before rinsing and patting dry. This helps to remove any bitterness and excess moisture.
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer and more flavorful sauce.
- For a crispier texture, lightly bread the eggplant slices before frying or baking.
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking to help it set and make easier to serve.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully created a delightful Eggplant Parmigiana. This dish, with its harmonious blend of eggplant, tomato sauce, and Parmesan cheese, is sure to impress and satisfy. Serve it hot with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.