Classic Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
This traditional eggplant parmesan traduction delivers authentic Italian flavors through carefully layered ingredients and time-tested techniques. The recipe combines crispy breaded eggplant slices with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Each component works together to create the perfect balance of textures and flavors that make this eggplant parmesan traduction a timeless favorite.
Storage Options
Store leftover eggplant parmesan in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
Summary
This eggplant parmesan traduction features layers of perfectly seasoned, breaded eggplant slices baked with marinara sauce and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The recipe serves 6-8 people and takes approximately 2 hours from start to finish, including preparation and baking time.
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Two large plates for breading station
- Colander for draining eggplant
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large mixing bowl
- Paper towels
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
For the Eggplant:
- 2 large eggplants (about 2 pounds total)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Assembly:
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 16 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplant: Slice eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Arrange on paper towels and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let stand for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Set Up Breading Station: Place flour in one plate. Beat eggs in a shallow bowl. Combine panko, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, and pepper in another plate.
- Bread the Eggplant: Pat eggplant slices dry with paper towels. Dredge each slice in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Eggplant: Heat 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded eggplant slices in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
- Assemble the Dish: Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half the eggplant slices, half the remaining sauce, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Repeat layers.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- Salting the eggplant is crucial for removing bitterness and excess moisture
- Don’t skip the resting period after baking – it helps the layers set properly
- Use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for the best flavor balance
- Fresh mozzarella works better than pre-shredded for optimal melting
Tips for Success
Perfect Eggplant Selection: Choose firm, glossy eggplants without soft spots or wrinkles. The skin should be taut and the eggplant should feel heavy for its size.
Optimal Breading Technique: Keep one hand for wet ingredients and one for dry to prevent clumping. Press breadcrumbs firmly onto each slice for better adherence.
Temperature Control: Maintain oil temperature around 350°F for even browning. If the oil is too hot, the outside burns before the inside cooks.
Layer Management: Don’t overcrowd layers – this prevents even cooking and can make the dish soggy.
Additional Tips and Variations
Healthier Version: Brush breaded eggplant with olive oil and bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
Flavor Variations: Add roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms between layers for extra depth.
Cheese Options: Experiment with ricotta, fontina, or provolone for different flavor profiles while maintaining the classic structure.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
Individual Portions: Create single-serving portions in ramekins for elegant presentation – reduce baking time to 15-20 minutes total.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the assembled dish for up to 3 months.
Q: How do I prevent soggy eggplant parmesan? A: Salt the eggplant slices and let them drain for 30 minutes, ensure your oil is hot enough when frying, and don’t skip the resting period after baking.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, you can substitute with ricotta, fontina, or provolone. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for best melting results.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? A: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breading soggy.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, substitute the flour with gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Conclusion
This authentic eggplant parmesan traduction brings the warmth and comfort of Italian home cooking to your table. The combination of crispy breaded eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. Whether you’re new to Italian cuisine or a seasoned cook, this recipe provides clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure success every time. The versatility of this eggplant parmesan traduction makes it perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations. With proper storage techniques, you can enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week, making it an excellent choice for meal planning. Take your time with each step, and you’ll be rewarded with a restaurant-quality dish that showcases the best of Italian culinary tradition.