Crispy Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan – A Flavor Explosion!

Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug served in crispy breadcrumbs. Picture this: tender, golden slices of eggplant, lovingly nestled between layers of rich marinara and gooey cheese. The aroma wafts through the kitchen like an Italian grandmother calling you home for dinner, promising a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds tango. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.

Now, let’s be real when I first attempted to make Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan, I was convinced I would either end up with a Michelin star or set off the smoke alarm. Spoiler alert: neither happened! Instead, I created a masterpiece that has since become my go-to comfort food for those nights when life feels too chaotic. hearty beef stew recipe Whether it’s a chilly autumn evening or an impromptu gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients for Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Eggplants: Choose firm, fresh eggplants; they should feel heavy for their size and have a smooth skin.
• Breadcrumbs: Using seasoned breadcrumbs adds extra flavor; panko works wonders for that crunch factor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor; avoid pre-grated for optimal results.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Use whole milk mozzarella for gooey texture; it melts beautifully in this dish.
• Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade sauce kicks things up a notch your choice!
• Olive Oil: For frying, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil; it enhances the flavor and keeps everything crispy.
• Flour: All-purpose flour helps the eggplant adhere to the breadcrumbs; don’t skip this step!
• Eggs: Beaten eggs serve as the binding agent between the flour and breadcrumbs.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplants into about half-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle them lightly with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This draws out moisture and bitterness trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In separate bowls, set out flour (seasoned with salt and pepper), beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese. This ensures an efficient assembly line because we all know how messy cooking can get!

Step 3: Bread the Eggplant Slices

Dredge each slice of eggplant in flour first, then dip it into the beaten eggs before coating it with breadcrumbs. Make sure each slice is well-coated; we want every bite to be as crispy as possible!

Step 4: Fry Those Beauties

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot (you can test by dropping in a breadcrumb if it sizzles, you’re ready), carefully place breaded eggplant slices in batches. Fry until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Layer It Up

In a baking dish, spread some marinara sauce at the bottom. Layer fried eggplants followed by more sauce and mozzarella cheese. Repeat until everything is used up aim for at least two layers!

Step 6: Bake It

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake your layered creation for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Trust me; your kitchen will smell divine.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! A scrumptious Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan that will have everyone asking for seconds and maybe even thirds! Enjoy every crispy bite loaded with cheesy goodness alongside some garlic bread or a light salad for balance (because you totally need veggies after all that fried deliciousness). Bon appétit!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve crispy perfection, start by slicing the eggplant and salting it to draw out moisture. While that sits, prepare your breading station. After frying the eggplant, assemble layers with marinara and cheese before baking until bubbly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the cheeses; mozzarella blends beautifully with provolone or even feta for a twist. You can also add herbs like basil or oregano to the breadcrumbs for an extra flavor kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and the cheese is melty again microwaving may soften that beloved crunch.

After serving this dish at a family gathering, my cousin declared it “life-changing.” Watching everyone fight over the last piece was a memory I’ll cherish forever it turns out deep-frying can create happiness!

FAQs :

What is Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan?

Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious Italian dish that features slices of eggplant coated in breadcrumbs and then deep-fried until golden brown. After frying, the eggplant slices are layered with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then baked until bubbly. baked ziti with tomato sauce This dish offers a perfect balance of crispy textures and savory flavors, making it a popular choice among both vegetarians and meat lovers.

How do I prepare the eggplant for Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan?

To prepare the eggplant for Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan, start by slicing the eggplant into ¼-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle salt on the slices to draw out moisture and bitterness, letting them sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse off the salt and pat the slices dry with a paper towel. This step ensures that your eggplant will fry to a perfect crisp while enhancing its flavor.

Can I make Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan ahead of time. Prepare the dish up until the baking step, allowing it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days or freeze it for longer storage. creamy wrap for gatherings When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge or thawed from frozen until heated through and bubbly.

What are some side dishes to serve with Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan?

Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is another great option that complements the flavors perfectly. sticky garlic eggplant dish For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside pasta tossed in olive oil or marinara sauce to complete your Italian feast.

Conclusion for Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan :

Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan is an indulgent yet satisfying dish that combines crispy fried eggplant with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese. By following simple preparation steps like salting and frying, you can create this delightful recipe at home. Whether served as a main course or alongside pasta, this dish is sure to please any crowd. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe; it’s an excellent way to enjoy a classic Italian favorite!

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Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan

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• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Deep-Fried Eggplant Parmesan is a delectable Italian dish that brings together crispy, golden eggplant slices layered with rich marinara sauce and melty mozzarella cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this comforting recipe is easy to make and sure to impress. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients

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• 2 medium eggplants (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

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Instructions

1. Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
2. Set up a breading station with seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
3. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip into eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the breaded slices until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
5. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, fried eggplants, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the dish (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 80mg