Ingredients

2 cans hunts chunky crushed tomatoes
2 cans hunts tomato paste
1 can stewed tomatoes ( Italian )
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
6 chopped garlic cloves ( cut in halves or thirds )
1 teaspoon garlic juice ( from jar )
1 shallot ( diced )
2 tablespoons dried oregano
4 tablespoons dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 tablespoon Splenda granular ( sugar substitute )
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 medium eggplants ( about 1 pound )
2 cups unseasoned breadcrumbs
flour
2 eggs ( beaten )
extra virgin olive oil
4 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup parmesan cheese ( grated )
1 lb fratella cheese ( crumbled ) or 8 slices fontina
pepper
Eggplant Parmesan, also known as Eggplant Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in southern Italy. It typically consists of deep-fried breaded eggplant slices, layered with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese, baked to perfection. It is often served as a main course and is a staple in Italian households. This recipe adds a twist to the classic recipe by using a combination of canned tomato sauce and fresh garlic to provide a depth of savory and spicy flavors. It is a comforting and hearty dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2.Open the cans of crushed tomatoes and paste and pour them into a blender with the canned stewed tomatoes. Pulse until the mixture is smooth.
3.In a skillet, heat up olive oil on medium heat.
4.Add garlic and stir until aromatic.
5.Add the blended tomato sauce into the skillet.
6.Add garlic juice, chopped shallot, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, dried basil, Splenda granular, salt and pepper.
7.Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
8.Wash and trim the eggplants. Slice them into thin rounds.
9.Prepare two bowls, one with beaten eggs and the other with breadcrumbs mixed with flour.
10.Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten eggs first, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
11.Fry each slice until golden brown, adding more olive oil as needed.
12.Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of an oven-safe dish.
13.Layer the eggplant slices on top of the marinara sauce.
14.Layer crumbled fratella cheese or fontina slices on top of the eggplant slices.
15.Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up.
16.Cover top layer with marinara sauce and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and black pepper.
17.Bake for about 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

PROS

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that can be customized to taste.
It is flavorful and hearty, perfect for any occasion.
This Eggplant Parmesan recipe has a unique twist with the addition of garlic which provides savory and spicy flavors.

This recipe can be easily made vegetarian and gluten-free by omitting the crumbs and substituting the fratella cheese for a plant-based option.

CONS

Eggplant Parmesan is a high-calorie and high-fat dish due to the cheese and frying of the eggplant slices.
However, this dish can be made healthier by baking the eggplant slices instead of frying and using less cheese.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplant is a low-calorie and nutrient-dense vegetable. It is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, particularly potassium and antioxidants which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
The garlic used in this recipe has been linked to various health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving cholesterol levels.

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