Looking for a delicious and filling meal? Look no further than Eggplant Parmigiana! This classic Italian dish is a favorite for a reason, and with a whopping 670 calories per serving, it's sure to keep you satisfied for hours.
Made with layers of breaded eggplant, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese, eggplant parmigiana is a hearty and flavorful meal option. Plus, it's packed with nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and potassium.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about making and serving eggplant parmigiana, as well as some fun variations and the dish's history.
What is eggplant parmigiana?
Despite its name, eggplant parmigiana has nothing to do with actual Parmesan cheese. The dish is traditionally made with mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce, and is a staple of Italian cuisine. Eggplant parmigiana is a vegetarian dish, although some recipes may include meat. The dish has become popular all over the world and is often served as a main course in Italian-American households.
Ingredients needed to make eggplant parmigiana
To make eggplant parmigiana, you'll need to start by prepping your eggplant. This usually involves slicing it thinly and soaking it in salt water to remove any bitter taste. Next, you'll need to bread the eggplant slices in a mixture of Italian bread crumbs, salt, and pepper, before frying them up in some hot oil in a frying pan. Finally, it's time to assemble the dish! Layer the fried eggplant slices in a baking dish with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese, and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Nutritional value of eggplant parmigiana
Eggplant parmigiana is a relatively high-calorie dish, due to its use of cheese and breading. However, it's also packed with nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. If you're looking to make your eggplant parmigiana a bit healthier, consider using low-fat cheese options, or skip breading the eggplant altogether and use grilled or roasted eggplant slices instead.
How to make eggplant parmigiana
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant, sliced thinly 2 cups of tomato sauce
How to serve eggplant parmigiana
To serve your eggplant parmigiana, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it up into serving portions. Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or pasta.
Variations of eggplant parmigiana
If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying out some of these fun twists on the classic recipe: - Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the dish - Use different types of cheese, like goat cheese or ricotta
The history of eggplant parmigiana
Today, eggplant parmigiana is a beloved part of Italian cuisine, and has even become popular in other parts of the world, especially in the United States.
Famous eggplant parmigiana recipes
If you're looking to try your hand at a classic recipe, give Hazan's version a try. You can find the full recipe in her cookbook, 'Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking'.
Vegetarian and vegan eggplant parmigiana alternatives
Some other vegan and vegetarian eggplant parmigiana recipes to consider: - Vegan Eggplant parmesan from Minimalist Baker - Vegetarian Eggplant Parmesan from Eating Well
Tips for making the perfect eggplant parmigiana
- Salt your eggplant and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to remove any bitterness - Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor - Don't skimp on the tomato sauce, as this is what gives the dish its signature flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eggplant Parmigiana
1. What is Eggplant Parmigiana?
Eggplant Parmigiana is a classic Italian dish made with breaded and fried eggplant slices layered with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. It is usually served as a main course.
2. Is Eggplant Parmigiana healthy?
Eggplant Parmigiana can be a healthy dish if prepared with the right ingredients and cooking methods. Baking the eggplant instead of frying it can reduce the calorie count and using low-fat cheese can also make it healthier. However, it is still high in calories and should be consumed in moderation.
3. Can Eggplant Parmigiana be made ahead of time?
Yes, Eggplant Parmigiana can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month. When reheating, make sure to cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
4. What can I serve with Eggplant Parmigiana?
Eggplant Parmigiana is usually served with a side of pasta or a green salad. You can also serve it with garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the tomato sauce.
5. How do I make Eggplant Parmigiana vegetarian?
Eggplant Parmigiana is already a vegetarian dish as it does not contain meat. However, if you want to make it vegan, you can replace the cheese with vegan cheese or skip it altogether. You can also use a plant-based milk and egg substitute for the batter.