Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a popular Italian dish that consists of breaded and fried slices of eggplant that are layered with tomato sauce, cheese, and often other ingredients such as ground meat or vegetables. It is then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Here is a recipe for eggplant Parmesan that you can try at home:

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
4 eggs, beaten
2 cups bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Olive oil, for frying
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Chopped fresh basil, for garnish

Directions

Step 1

Place the eggplant slices in a single layer on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 3

Set up a breading station by placing the flour, eggs, and bread crumbs in separate shallow bowls. Mix the Parmesan cheese into the bread crumbs.

Step 4

Dip the eggplant slices in the flour, then the eggs, and then the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to help the bread crumbs adhere.

Step 5

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. When the oil is hot, add the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the eggplant slices from the pan and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6

Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of the fried eggplant slices on top of the sauce. Top with more tomato sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process with the remaining eggplant slices, sauce, and cheese.

Step 7

Bake the eggplant Parmesan for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Step 8

I hope you enjoy this recipe! Let me know if you have any questions.