This recipe provides a vegetarian twist on the classic Italian dish, Eggplant Parmesan, by replacing the meat sauce with a vegetable-rich tomato sauce and using a blend of cheeses for a creamy topping. The recipe calls for slicing and coating eggplant in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs before frying until golden brown. The eggplant slices are then layered with the tomato sauce, cheese, and fresh basil in a baking dish and baked until bubbly and golden brown. This recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative that is perfect for family dinners, meals with friends, or any special occasion.

A Classic Italian Dish with a Vegetarian Twist: Homemade Eggplant Parmesan

Introduction

Eggplant Parmesan, or Parmigiana di Melanzane in Italian, is a classic Italian dish that is beloved in many parts of the world. The dish is made by layering slices of fried or baked eggplant with tomato sauce, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese. The dish is then baked until bubbly and golden brown.

In this recipe, we will be giving this classic dish a vegetarian twist by replacing the traditional meat sauce with a hearty tomato sauce that is chock full of vegetables. We’ll also be using a blend of your favorite cheeses to create a creamy, flavorful topping that is sure to satisfy even the most dedicated cheese lovers.

Ingredients and Tools

To prepare this recipe, we will need the following ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
• 4 cups of your favorite tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• Baking dish

Procedure

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious Eggplant Parmesan:

Step 1: Slice the eggplants

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice the eggplants into 1/2 inch rounds.

Step 2: Dredge and coat the eggplant

In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, and black pepper. In another shallow dish, add the beaten eggs. In a third shallow dish, add the breadcrumbs. Dip each slice of eggplant first in the flour mixture, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumbs.

Place the coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Fry the eggplant

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add several slices of eggplant at a time and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Place the fried eggplant on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Continue frying the rest of the eggplant slices until they are all cooked.

Step 4: Layer the eggplant in the baking dish

In a large baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce. Add a layer of fried eggplant slices on top. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and provolone cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and a handful of chopped fresh basil.

Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the eggplant parmesan

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown.

Serve your delicious vegetarian eggplant parmesan hot, garnished with fresh basil if you prefer. Buon appetito!

Conclusion

This Classic Italian Dish with a Vegetarian Twist: Homemade Eggplant Parmesan recipe demonstrates how to create a delicious dish that is both healthy and flavorful. This hearty and cheesy dish will satisfy your cravings, making it an excellent meal for family dinners, meals with friends, or any special occasion.

With its layers of fragrant tomato sauce, crispy fried eggplant, and indulgent cheese, this healthy spin on an Italian classic is sure to become a family favorite. So why not give it a try and enjoy this delicious and satisfying recipe today?