Introduction

Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful Italian dish that combines layers of tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. This version is a quick and easy take, requiring just five simple ingredients and taking only 15 minutes to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this gratin is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Eggplants: 2 medium-sized, sliced into rounds
– Parmesan cheese: 100g, grated
– Tomato sauce: 250ml
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Fresh basil: a handful, chopped

Prep Time

The preparation time for this Eggplant Parmesan is approximately 10 minutes. During this time, you will need to slice the eggplants, grate the cheese, and gather your ingredients to make the process smooth and efficient.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for the dish is around 15 minutes, making the total time to dish out this delicious gratin approximately 25 minutes. This recipe typically yields 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or for enjoying leftovers the next day.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preparation of Eggplants

Slice the eggplants into rounds, approximately 1 cm in thickness. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Sprinkle them lightly with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.

Preheating the Oven

While the eggplants are resting, preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).

Rinsing and Drying Eggplants

After the eggplants have rested, rinse the salt off under cold water. Pat the slices dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Layering the Dish

In a baking dish, start layering the eggplant slices. Alternate them with layers of grated Parmesan cheese, adding a sprinkle of black pepper between layers for seasoning.

Final Topping

Finish with a generous layer of Parmesan cheese on the top to create a nice crust.

Baking

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the eggplants are tender.

Serving

Once baked, remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm.

Notes

Eggplant Preparation

Salting the eggplants helps in removing excess moisture and enhances the flavor. This step is important for achieving the desired texture.

Cheese Options

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. While Parmesan is traditional, you can use a mix of mozzarella or Gruyère for added flavor.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispy topping.

Cook techniques

Layering

Layering involves placing ingredients in a structured manner, often from the bottom up. For the gratin, slices of eggplant are layered with cheese and sauce to create a harmonious blend of flavors.

Baking

Baking is a cooking method that uses dry heat in an oven. In the preparation of gratin, baking helps to meld the flavors together and achieve a golden, crispy top.

Grating

Grating is the process of shredding food into fine pieces. Grating Parmesan cheese allows it to melt evenly over the dish, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.

Seasoning

Seasoning is crucial in cooking, as it enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. In this recipe, using salt, pepper, and herbs amplifies the taste of the eggplant and cheese.

Pre-cooking

Pre-cooking involves cooking an ingredient briefly before the main cooking process. Sautéing the eggplant before layering helps to reduce its moisture content and prevent a soggy gratin.

FAQ

Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplant?

Yes, you can substitute eggplant with zucchini or tomatoes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Is it necessary to salt the eggplant before cooking?

Salting the eggplant helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness, making for a better texture in the finished dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the gratin in advance and bake it just before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

What can I serve with this dish?

Gratin can be served as a side dish with grilled meats or as a main dish accompanied by a fresh salad.

Conclusion

The Gratin d’Aubergines au Parmesan is a delicious and straightforward dish that highlights the rich flavors of eggplant combined with the savory taste of Parmesan cheese. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for gatherings. The ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy cooks looking to create a tasty and healthy meal.

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