Elevate your weeknight meals: how to make eggplant parmesan in the oven with ease

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that combines the flavors of tender eggplant, savory cheese, and tangy tomato sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary adventure, this comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions to create an authentic and flavorful Eggplant Parmesan in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Selecting the Perfect Eggplant

The key to a successful Eggplant Parmesan lies in choosing the right eggplant. Look for eggplants that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a smooth, blemish-free skin. Avoid eggplants that are soft, bruised, or have wrinkles, as these may indicate over-ripeness or damage.

Preparing the Eggplant

1. Slice the Eggplant: Slice the eggplant lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. Salt the Eggplant: Sprinkle the eggplant slices generously with salt and allow them to rest on a wire rack over a baking sheet for 30-60 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, preventing the eggplant from becoming soggy during cooking.
3. Rinse and Pat Dry: Rinse the salted eggplant slices thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Creating the Breading

1. Prepare the Flour: In a shallow dish, spread out the flour and season it with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
3. Prepare the Breadcrumbs: In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and garlic powder.

Breading and Frying the Eggplant

1. Bread the Eggplant: Dip the eggplant slices into the flour, then the egg wash, and finally the breadcrumbs. Ensure that each slice is evenly coated.
2. Fry the Eggplant: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until they are golden brown on both sides. Drain the eggplant on paper towels.

Making the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté the Onions: In a large saucepan, sauté the onions in olive oil until they are translucent.
2. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian herbs, and salt and pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Assembling the Eggplant Parmesan

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
3. Layer the Dish: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange half of the fried eggplant slices over the sauce.
4. Top with Cheese and Sauce: Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the eggplant, followed by half of the remaining tomato sauce. Repeat the layers.
5. Bake: Bake the Eggplant Parmesan in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the eggplant is tender.

Serving the Eggplant Parmesan

Allow the Eggplant Parmesan to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant touch.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Do not overcook the eggplant slices, as they will become tough.
• If you don’t have a wire rack, you can salt the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with paper towels.
• You can use any type of cheese you like for the filling, such as provolone, fontina, or ricotta.
• Serve the Eggplant Parmesan with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Variations

• Vegetarian Eggplant Parmesan: Omit the Parmesan cheese from the breading and use a plant-based cheese for the filling.
• Spicy Eggplant Parmesan: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a touch of heat.
• Baked Eggplant Parmesan: For a healthier option, bake the eggplant slices instead of frying them.

Wrapping Up

Creating a delectable Eggplant Parmesan in the oven is a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds. By following the detailed instructions in this guide, you can master the art of this classic Italian dish. Experiment with different variations to suit your preferences and enjoy the satisfaction of serving a homemade masterpiece to your loved ones.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Can I use frozen eggplant for this recipe?

Frozen eggplant can be used, but it’s important to thaw it completely and drain off any excess moisture before using.

2. How can I prevent the eggplant from becoming bitter?

Salting the eggplant slices and allowing them to rest before cooking helps draw out excess moisture, which can contribute to bitterness.

3. What can I do if my tomato sauce is too thin?

If your tomato sauce is too thin, simmer it for a longer period of time until it thickens. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the sauce to thicken it quickly.