Introduction to Eggplant Parmesan:

Eggplant Parmesan, also known as Eggplant Parmigiana, is a classic Italian dish that combines thinly sliced and breaded eggplant with tomato sauce and melted cheese. It’s a mouthwatering favorite that can be time-consuming to prepare traditionally. In this article, we’ll present a simplified version of the recipe that retains all the flavors without the hassle.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Before we dive into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (you can use panko for extra crispiness)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preparing the Eggplant:

• Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, peel the eggplants and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
• Sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This process helps remove excess moisture from the eggplant, ensuring a firmer texture when cooked.
• After 15 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels.

Breading the Eggplant:

• In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten eggs, then coat them with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
• Place the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Baking the Eggplant:

• Drizzle olive oil over the breaded eggplant slices. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning.

Layering the Dish:

• Take a baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Place a single layer of baked eggplant slices on top. Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and torn basil leaves.
• Repeat the layering process until you run out of eggplant slices, making sure to end with a generous layer of mozzarella on top.

Serving and Enjoying Your Eggplant Parmesan:

Once you’ve assembled your Eggplant Parmesan, bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve the dish hot, garnished with more fresh basil if desired. It pairs perfectly with a side of spaghetti or a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion:

Making a delicious Eggplant Parmesan doesn’t have to be complicated. With this simplified recipe, you can enjoy the flavors of this classic Italian dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The crispy breaded eggplant, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese combine to create a dish that will delight your taste buds. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with your quick and tasty Eggplant Parmesan!