For those seeking a flavorful, meatless meal, this French-Style Eggplant recipe is a must-try. With its tender texture and rich flavor, eggplant serves as the perfect base for this dish, which is enhanced by aromatic spices, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The combination of roasted eggplant, a creamy garlic-mayo topping, and a hint of paprika gives this dish a satisfying depth of flavor that rivals even the most robust meat dishes. Perfect for a light lunch or a dinner side, this recipe is both delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 ripe tomato, sliced
- 50 grams Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions:
- Prepare the Eggplant: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Slice the eggplant into rounds about 1 cm (1/2 inch) thick.
- Season and Roast: Lightly brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, oregano, and paprika. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and golden.
- Make the Garlic-Mayo Topping: While the eggplant is roasting, mix the minced garlic with the mayonnaise in a small bowl. Set aside for later use.
- Egg Coating: Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. After the eggplant slices have finished roasting, dip each slice into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Pan-Fry the Eggplant: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Fry the eggplant slices for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the egg coating is set and slightly crispy. Once done, transfer them back to the baking sheet.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread a thin layer of the garlic-mayo mixture over each eggplant slice. Top each slice with a slice of tomato and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Grill for a Golden Finish: Place the eggplant slices under the oven grill (broiler) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and allow the eggplant slices to cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh oregano or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Conclusion:
This French-Style Eggplant dish is a fantastic way to enjoy the rich, hearty flavor of eggplant, elevated by a combination of garlic, mayonnaise, and Parmesan. The crispy, golden eggplant paired with fresh tomatoes and melted cheese creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a meatless alternative. Try it as a main course or a flavorful side, and enjoy the comforting flavors of French-inspired cuisine!