breaded Eggplant

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying, look no further than breaded eggplant. This recipe highlights the subtle yet delightful flavor of eggplant, enhanced by a crunchy, golden-brown exterior. Serve it with marinara sauce for dipping, and you’ll have a hit dish that makes a fantastic appetizer or a lovely side to any meal. Let’s dive into this easy and mouthwatering recipe that’s perfect for both novices and seasoned cooks alike.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Breaded eggplant is a fantastic way to introduce more vegetables into your diet while satisfying your cravings for something crunchy and flavorful. It’s a very versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether you’re following a specific diet or simply love good food. The combination of seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs provides a delicious flavor that pairs beautifully with marinara sauce. Plus, it’s a great way to make use of an eggplant if you have one on hand!

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant
• ½ cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ¾ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Marinara sauce for dipping

How To Make breaded Eggplant

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Start by washing your medium eggplant. Slice it into approximately ½-inch thick rounds. This thickness allows the eggplant to cook evenly while ensuring that the inside remains tender and delicious.

Step 2: Soak the Eggplant

To help alleviate any bitterness from the eggplant, lay the rounds out on a kitchen towel and sprinkle salt over them. Let them sit for about 20-30 minutes. This step also helps draw out moisture, ensuring that your breaded pieces will fry up beautifully crisp.

Step 3: Create the Breading Mixture

In a shallow dish, combine the Italian seasoned bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until everything is well mixed. This combination will create a flavorful coating for the eggplant that enhances its natural taste.

Step 4: Drench in Dressing

In another bowl, pour the Italian dressing. This will serve as the adhesive for your breading. Dip each eggplant slice into the dressing, making sure it’s thoroughly coated but not dripping.

Step 5: Bread the Eggplant

After dipping in the dressing, place each slice into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure that the breadcrumbs stick to the eggplant. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Set aside on a plate or baking sheet as you prepare the next step.

Step 6: Cook the Eggplant

You can either bake or pan-fry your breaded eggplant. For a healthier option, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.

If you prefer a traditional frying method, heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded eggplant slices in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Place cooked slices on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once cooked to perfection, remove your breaded eggplant from the oven or skillet. Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot alongside marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Choose a firm eggplant that feels heavy for its size to ensure the best flavor and texture.
• If you don’t have Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to plain breadcrumbs for a similar effect.
• Let the eggplant rest after cooking for a few minutes; this allows the flavors to settle.
• For an extra crispy coating, consider double-coating by dipping in the Italian dressing, breading again, and then frying or baking.

Variations and Customizations

• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat.
• Substitute different cheese like mozzarella for a gooey inside.
• Use zucchini or squash instead of eggplant for a different veggie twist.
• Try adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is often not the case!), let the eggplant cool completely before storing. Place the breaded eggplant in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked eggplant. If you choose to freeze, layer between parchment paper in an airtight container, and they can last up to a month in the freezer. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness or microwave for a quick meal.

FAQ

Can I make breaded eggplant ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the eggplant slices and bread them ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before baking or frying for even cooking.

What dipping sauces pair well with breaded eggplant?

While marinara sauce is a classic dip for breaded eggplant, you can also try it with garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an exciting twist.

How do I prevent breading from falling off during cooking?

Ensure that the eggplant slices are well-coated in the Italian dressing and then press them firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. The more you press, the better they’ll adhere. Also, avoid moving them around too much while cooking.

Can I bake breaded eggplant instead of frying it?

Absolutely! Baking is a wonderful alternative that results in a lighter dish while still delivering delicious crunch. Just be sure to preheat your oven and use parchment paper for the best results.

Conclusion

Breaded eggplant is a delightful dish that brings out the best in this often-overlooked vegetable. Its crunchy texture and savory flavor make it a favorite for gatherings, snacks, or as a delicious side dish. Armed with the simple steps and tips provided, you’re now ready to create your own batch of crispy, golden-brown eggplant that’s sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering breaded eggplant! Happy cooking!

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