Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is a comforting baked dish featuring thick slices of eggplant coated in seasoned bread crumbs, fried until crispy, layered with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese, then baked to perfection. The final result boasts crispy edges, tender interior, and bubbling, golden cheese that invites you to dig in with a smile.
Equipment
- Large baking dish
- Serrated knife & cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 pieces eggplants preferably large and firm
- 1 cup flour for dredging
- 3 large eggs beaten
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs seasoned with garlic powder and herbs
- 2 cups marinara sauce chunky and flavorful
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1/4 cup olive oil for frying
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- a handful fresh basil chopped, for layering
Instructions
- Slice the eggplants into 1 cm thick rounds and sprinkle generously with salt. Set aside for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
- While waiting, set up your breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned panko bread crumbs mixed with garlic powder and herbs.
- Pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels to remove excess salt and moisture. Dip each piece into flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned bread crumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant. Fry the breaded eggplant slices for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy, listening for a satisfying crackle.
- Transfer the fried eggplant slices to paper towels to drain excess oil and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly oil the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of the dish. Layer fried eggplant slices over the sauce, then sprinkle with chopped basil, shredded mozzarella, and a little Parmesan. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden around the edges. The aroma of garlic, tomato, and melted cheese will fill the kitchen.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes, allowing the dish to set and making it easier to slice cleanly.
- Slice and serve hot, enjoying the crispy edges, tender interior, and gooey cheese with a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired.