How to Prepare Eggplant for Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan, also known as Eggplant Lasagna, is a classic Italian dish that combines layers of breaded and baked eggplant with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and ricotta cheese. To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, it is essential to properly prepare the eggplant. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare eggplant for Eggplant Parmesan.
1. Choose the right eggplant: Select firm, glossy, and unblemished eggplants. The best eggplants have a deep, dark purple color and are heavy for their size.
2. Wash the eggplants: Rinse the eggplants under cold running water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Trim the ends: Use a sharp knife to trim the ends of the eggplants. This will help ensure even slicing and prevent the eggplants from falling apart during cooking.
4. Slice the eggplants: Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise. Place a cut side down on a cutting board and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. If the eggplants are particularly large, you may need to cut them into smaller pieces.
5. Salt the eggplant slices: Sprinkle the eggplant slices with a generous amount of salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to an hour. This process draws out excess moisture from the eggplant, which helps the breading to adhere better and prevents the dish from becoming soggy.
6. Rinse and dry the eggplant slices: After the eggplant slices have sat for the recommended time, rinse them under cold running water to remove the excess salt. Pat them dry with a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel.
7. Bread the eggplant slices: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. In another shallow dish, beat 2 eggs with 2 tablespoons of water. In a third shallow dish, place 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, shake off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the eggplant slices to ensure they stick.
8. Bake the breaded eggplant slices: Place the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
9. Assemble the Eggplant Parmesan: Once the breaded eggplant slices are done, you can proceed to assemble the Eggplant Parmesan. Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place a layer of breaded eggplant slices on top of the sauce, followed by a layer of ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
10. Bake the Eggplant Parmesan: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Now that you know how to prepare eggplant for Eggplant Parmesan, you can enjoy this delicious and comforting Italian dish in your own kitchen. Buon appetito!
