Fried Eggplant Parmesan with Garlic Bread: A Comfort Food Classic
Introduction
Fried Eggplant Parmesan is a dish that evokes nostalgia and warmth, a comfort food classic that has graced dinner tables across generations. Growing up, my Grandma would whip up this delicious treat almost every Sunday, filling our home with the irresistible aroma of fried eggplant and fresh marinara. Eggplant Parmesan isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for cozy family gatherings or a quiet night in.
Comfort food plays an essential role in home cooking, offering not just nourishment but also a sense of belonging and tradition. Today, I’m excited to share with you my take on this beloved dish, along with a side of garlic bread that complements it perfectly. In this article, we’ll go through a detailed recipe for Fried Eggplant Parmesan, complete with a homemade marinara sauce and a crispy garlic bread to round out the meal.
Ingredients
Fried Eggplant Parmesan
- 2 medium-sized eggplants
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Italian style)
- 4 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Garlic Bread
- 1 loaf of French bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
Ingredients Overview
| Dish | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Fried Eggplant Parmesan | Eggplant, Flour, Eggs, Breadcrumbs, Marinara Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese, Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Basil |
| Garlic Bread | French Bread, Butter, Garlic, Parsley, Salt |
Equipment Needed
- Frying pan
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Eggplant
- Selecting and slicing the eggplant: Choose firm, shiny eggplants with smooth skin. Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Salting and draining the eggplant: Sprinkle salt on both sides of the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
- Breading the eggplant slices: Rinse off the salt and pat the slices dry with paper towels. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dredge each slice in flour, dip into the eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Frying the Eggplant
- Heating the oil: In a large frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Frying the eggplant until golden brown: Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Draining excess oil on paper towels: Once cooked, transfer the fried eggplant to paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Sprinkle with salt while they are still hot.
Making the Marinara Sauce
- Ingredients and preparation steps: In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing until translucent.
- Stir in 1 can of crushed tomatoes (28 oz), 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 20-30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Assembling the Dish
- Layering the eggplant, marinara, and cheese: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the fried eggplant slices, followed by half of the marinara sauce, and then half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers again.
- Baking instructions: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Preparing the Garlic Bread
- Mixing the garlic butter spread: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until combined.
- Spreading on the bread and baking until golden: Slice the French bread in half lengthwise and spread the garlic butter evenly on both halves. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Once your Fried Eggplant Parmesan is out of the oven and the garlic bread is perfectly toasted, it’s time to serve! Here are some tips on how to present your dish:
- Garnish the Eggplant Parmesan with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
- Slice the Parmesan into squares or wedges for easy serving.
- Pair with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
- For beverages, consider serving with a chilled glass of white wine or a classic Italian soda.
Variations and Tips
Fried Eggplant Parmesan is versatile and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian/Vegan substitutions: Replace egg with a flaxseed or aquafaba mixture and use vegan mozzarella to create a fully plant-based version.
- Different cheese options: Experiment with provolone, fontina, or goat cheese for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Adding spices or herbs for flavor: Consider adding red pepper flakes for heat, or fresh herbs like thyme and oregano for an aromatic touch.
Conclusion
Fried Eggplant Parmesan with Garlic Bread is not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with flavors and memories. The crispy layers of eggplant, rich marinara, and gooey cheese come together to create a meal that warms the heart and soul. I encourage you to try this recipe at home and relish the joy it brings to your dining table. Don’t forget to share your experiences and variations in the comments below!
Call to Action
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