Introduction
Growing eggplants in your garden and turning them into a delicious Eggplant Parmesan is a rewarding journey that combines the joy of cultivation with the pleasure of a mouthwatering dish. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps of cultivating eggplants and provide a simple recipe for making Eggplant Parmesan. Let’s embark on this delightful gardening and culinary adventure!
Growing Eggplants
1. **Selecting Eggplant Varieties:
- Classic Italian Eggplant: This variety is versatile and well-suited for Eggplant Parmesan.
- Japanese Eggplant: Long and slender, perfect for grilling or roasting.
- Fairy Tale Eggplant: Small, tender, and excellent for roasting or sautéing.
2. **Planting Eggplants:
- Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost when the soil has warmed.
- Spacing: Plant eggplants 18-24 inches apart in well-draining soil.
3. **Caring for Eggplants:
- Sunlight: Provide full sunlight, at least 6-8 hours per day.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
4. **Supporting Eggplants:
- Staking: Use stakes to support taller varieties and prevent the fruit from touching the ground.
- Caging: Create cages for bushier varieties to provide support.
5. **Harvesting Eggplants:
- Timing: Harvest when the skin is glossy and the fruit is firm to the touch.
- Use Pruning Shears: Cut the eggplants from the plant using pruning shears to avoid damaging the stem.
- Continuous Harvest: Continue harvesting regularly to encourage more fruit production.
Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Eggplants:
- Sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Breading Process:
- In separate bowls, place breadcrumbs and beaten eggs. Dip each eggplant slice into the eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry Eggplant Slices:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Assemble Layers:
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices, followed by dollops of ricotta cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan and mozzarella. Repeat the layers.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy:
- Serve slices of Eggplant Parmesan on plates, and savor the delightful combination of crispy eggplant and gooey cheese.
Tips for Success:
- Choose Fresh Eggplants:
- Select firm and glossy eggplants for the best texture and flavor.
- Proper Breading Technique:
- Ensure an even coat of breadcrumbs by pressing them onto the eggplant slices for a crispier texture.
- Adjust Cheese Amounts:
- Customize the amount of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
- Homemade Marinara Sauce:
- For an extra touch, consider making your own marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
- Serve with Pasta or Salad:
- Eggplant Parmesan pairs well with pasta or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
By cultivating eggplants in your garden and transforming them into a delectable Eggplant Parmesan, you not only enjoy the satisfaction of homegrown produce but also indulge in a flavorful and comforting dish. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, growing eggplants and creating Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful and delicious journey. Harvest, cook, and relish the fantastic flavors of your homegrown Eggplant Parmesan. Happy growing and cooking!
To learn more click How to Make a Popcorn Garden with Corn and Butter and Chick eggplant .