How To Make Eggplant Parmesan

How to Make Delicious Eggplant Parmesan

Are you looking for a scrumptious and satisfying vegetarian dish to impress your family and friends? Look no further than the classic and flavorful Eggplant Parmesan! This Italian dish is a perfect blend of crispy breaded eggplant slices, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Follow this simple recipe to create a memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 1: Prep the Eggplant
   • Peel the skin off the eggplants, if desired, or leave it on for extra texture.
   • Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
   • Lay the slices on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
   • Pat the eggplant slices dry with another paper towel to remove the moisture and salt.
3. Step 2: Bread the Eggplant
   • In separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
   • Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to the breadcrumbs and mix well.
   • Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, shake off the excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
   • Place the breaded slices on a baking sheet.
4. Step 3: Fry the Eggplant
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the breaded eggplant slices and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
   • Transfer the fried slices to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
5. Step 4: Layer the Eggplant Parmesan
   • In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
   • Place a single layer of fried eggplant slices on top of the sauce.
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and fresh parsley over the eggplant slices.
   • Repeat the layers: sauce, eggplant, cheese, basil, and parsley.
6. Step 5: Bake and Serve
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Garnish with additional fresh basil and parsley, if desired.
   • Serve hot and enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade Eggplant Parmesan!

Eggplant Parmeasan is a versatile dish that can be served on its own, or as a filling in a sandwich or a topping for pasta. Its rich and comforting flavors make it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. So, gather the ingredients and give this delicious recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!