Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cups Caruso sauce
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. In another mixing bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each eggplant slice into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Place the fried eggplant slices on a baking sheet and spoon the Caruso sauce over each slice.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the sauce is bubbly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be used instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Any other type of cheese can be used instead of Parmesan cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mozzarella cheese on top of the eggplant slices before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Use zucchini or yellow squash instead of eggplant for a different flavor.
- Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the Caruso sauce for a meaty version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to slice the eggplant evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the eggplant slices from sticking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when frying the eggplant slices to ensure they cook evenly.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the eggplant in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the eggplant on a platter with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the eggplant slices are too thick, they may not cook through in the oven. Make sure to slice them evenly and to the correct thickness.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the eggplant thoroughly before slicing and cooking.
Food history:
- Caruso sauce is a classic Italian tomato sauce named after the famous opera singer Enrico Caruso.
Flavor profiles:
- The Caruso sauce adds a rich and savory flavor to the eggplant, while the Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and salty flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the baked eggplant as a main dish or as a side dish to any Italian-inspired meal.
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Region: Italian