Introduction
Charred aubergine parmigiana is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe uses smoky, charred aubergines layered with rich tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese to create a comforting and indulgent meal. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleasing centerpiece at gatherings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Aubergine: 2 large, sliced into 1 cm rounds
Olive oil: 4 tablespoons
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Passata: 700 ml (or canned chopped tomatoes)
Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
Fresh basil: a handful, chopped
Mozzarella cheese: 300 g, torn into pieces
Parmesan cheese: 50 g, grated
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes. This includes slicing the aubergines and preparing the sauce.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 40 minutes, giving a total time of about 1 hour. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it an ideal dish for a small family or intimate gathering.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Aubergines
Slice the aubergines into 1cm thick rounds. Arrange them on a baking tray, sprinkling both sides with salt. Leave them for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
Rinse and Dry
After 30 minutes, rinse the aubergines under cold running water to remove the salt. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Cook the Aubergines
Drizzle some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the aubergine slices in batches and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and tender. Transfer to a plate.
Prepare the Sauce
In the same pan, add more olive oil if necessary and sauté garlic until golden. Pour in the canned tomatoes, seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
Assemble the Parmigiana
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). In a baking dish, layer half of the aubergine, followed by half of the sauce, and sprinkle with a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining aubergine, sauce, and cheese.
Bake the Dish
Transfer the assembled dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.
Let it Rest
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to slice.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your charred aubergine parmigiana with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Vegetarian Option
This dish is naturally vegetarian, making it an excellent option for meatless meals.
Variations
Add layers of spinach or other vegetables if desired, or incorporate different types of cheese for varied flavors.
Cook techniques
Charring
Charring involves cooking food over direct heat to develop a smoky flavor and enhance its appearance. For the aubergines, it helps to caramelize the sugars and bring out a rich taste.
Layering
Layering is the technique of arranging different ingredients in layers to create depth of flavor and texture. In this dish, alternate layers of aubergine, sauce, and cheese build a rich and satisfying dish.
Grating
Grating cheese makes it easier to melt and allows for even distribution throughout the dish. Choosing a good melting cheese ensures a creamy texture.
Baking
Baking allows for even cooking and helps meld the flavors together. This technique is crucial for finishing the parmigiana until golden and bubbly.
Finishing under the grill
Using the grill at the end of cooking gives the dish a crispy and golden top layer, adding textural contrast to the soft baked ingredients.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables besides aubergine?
Yes, you can substitute other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking, but the texture may change slightly once it’s thawed and reheated.
What type of cheese works best for this dish?
A good melting cheese like mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan is ideal for achieving a creamy texture and rich flavor.
How can I make this dish vegan?
You can replace the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and avoid using any meat-based sauces.
What can I serve with charred aubergine parmigiana?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
The charred aubergine parmigiana is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the smoky flavor of grilled aubergine with rich tomato sauce and cheesy goodness. This recipe highlights how simple ingredients can come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal, making it ideal for both special occasions and everyday dinners.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Vegetable Lasagna
Layer grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms with pasta sheets and béchamel sauce for a hearty dish that complements the flavors of charred aubergine.
Pasta Arrabbiata
A spicy tomato-based pasta that pairs well with the creamy and rich parmigiana, adding a zesty kick to your meal.
Garlicky Green Beans
Serve sautéed green beans with garlic and lemon on the side for a fresh and vibrant contrast to the heavy parmigiana.
Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
Start your meal with crispy bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, providing a refreshing appetizer that sets the tone for the main dish.
Classic Caprese Salad
Combine fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil to create a light salad that beautifully balances the richness of the parmigiana.
Herbed Garlic Bread
Complement your meal with slices of herbed garlic bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from the parmigiana.
Roasted Vegetable Salad
A colorful salad of roasted vegetables tossed with a light vinaigrette offers a delightful side that enhances the flavors of the dish.