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Baked Eggplant Parmesan: A Delightful Vegetarian Dish

Eggplant Parmesan, or Melanzane alla Parmigiana as it is known in its native Italy, is a classic dish that beautifully showcases the versatility of this often-underappreciated vegetable. Not only is it immensely satisfying to make, but it is also a comforting, hearty meal that can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. In this article, we will explore the history of this beloved dish, the benefits of using baked over fried eggplant, and a step-by-step recipe to create your own Baked Eggplant Parmesan.

A Brief History

The origins of Eggplant Parmesan can be traced back to Southern Italy, where the combination of tomatoes, cheese, and eggplant became a staple in many households. Though its exact beginnings are debated, this dish has evolved over centuries, becoming a favourite in Italian cuisine and beyond. Traditionally, the eggplant is sliced, breaded, and fried, but many contemporary cooks are opting for a baked version that reduces fat and calories without sacrificing flavour.

The Benefits of Baking

Choosing to bake the eggplant instead of frying it offers several advantages. For one, baking uses significantly less oil, making the dish lighter and healthier. Additionally, oven-baking allows the flavours to meld together beautifully as the dish cooks, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal. This method also enhances the texture of the eggplant, giving it a soft interior while retaining a slight exterior crispness.

Ingredients

To make an excellent Baked Eggplant Parmesan, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants
• Salt (for sweating the eggplant)
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups of breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• 500g of marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 300g of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 100g of grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Olive oil
• Black pepper

Method

1. Preparing the Eggplant: Start by slicing the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle them generously with salt and let them sit in a colander for about 30 minutes. This process, known as "sweating," helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.

2. Preheat the Oven: While the eggplants are sweating, preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. Coat the Eggplant: Rinse the salted eggplant slices under cold water to remove the excess salt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Set up a breading station: one bowl with flour, a second with beaten eggs, and a third with breadcrumbs mixed with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

4. Baking the Eggplant: Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Place the breaded slices on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

5. Assembling the Dish: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the baked eggplant slices over the sauce, then add half of the sliced mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Repeat the layers with the remaining eggplant, sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

6. Final Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

7. Serving: Allow the Baked Eggplant Parmesan to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of colour and flavour. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some rustic Italian bread.

Conclusion

Baked Eggplant Parmesan is not only a delicious meal but also a wonderful way to introduce more vegetables into your diet. Its layers of flavour and comforting textures make it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Italian cuisine or trying it for the first time, this dish is bound to impress. So grab some eggplants and get baking – a delightful culinary adventure awaits!