Eggplant dish with mozzarella

Eggplant dish with mozzarella and basil - an Italian delicacy in the comfort of your home

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants
- 160 g of cheese
- 160 g of mozzarella
- 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan
- Oil for frying the eggplants
- For the sauce:
- 2 cans (about 900 g) of Cirio diced tomatoes
- 1 head of garlic
- 3 tablespoons of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Introduction and history:

Who doesn't love the fresh and inviting flavors of a dish that evokes the Italian spirit? The eggplant dish with mozzarella and basil is a perfect example of culinary comfort, bringing us closer to the atmosphere of a small Italian bistro. Basil, a key ingredient in this recipe, has a fascinating history, known as a royal plant with multiple medicinal uses. In India, basil is considered sacred and was introduced to Europe by Charlemagne. With over 60 existing species, each with distinct flavors, basil is indispensable in kitchens around the world.

Step by step in preparing the eggplant dish:

1. Preparing the sauce: Start by opening the two cans of Cirio diced tomatoes. Place them in a small pot, add the finely chopped garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Place the pot over low heat and let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally. This step will allow the flavors to blend perfectly, creating a rich and savory sauce.

2. Preparing the eggplants: Meanwhile, wash the eggplants well, remove the stems, and slice them thinly, about 1 cm thick. These slices will achieve a delicious texture when fried.

3. Frying the eggplants: In a frying pan, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it. Then, add a portion of eggplant slices to fry. Fry them for 1-2 minutes on each side until they soften, but do not let them brown too much. Remove the eggplants onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining eggplant slices.

4. Preparing the cheeses: Cut the cheese and mozzarella into slices slightly thicker than for a sandwich. These cheeses will add a delicious creaminess to your dish.

5. Assembling the dish: In a soufflé dish (ceramic or glass), start layering the ingredients alternately. Place a slice of eggplant, followed by a slice of cheese, another slice of eggplant, and then a slice of mozzarella. Continue until all ingredients are used. Finally, pour the tomato sauce over the entire dish and ensure it is evenly distributed.

6. Finalizing: Sprinkle the grated parmesan on top and place the dish in the preheated oven at 175 degrees Celsius. Let it bake for 40-45 minutes until the cheeses melt and the dish becomes golden and appetizing.

7. Serving: Once the dish is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before portioning. Serve it warm, alongside a fresh green salad or even with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Useful tips for a perfect result:

- Make sure the eggplants are well drained of oil after frying to avoid an overly oily dish.
- You can also use feta or ricotta cheese to vary the recipe, adding a different flavor note.
- If you have fresh basil, you can certainly use it instead of dried for a more intense taste and aroma.

Nutritional benefits:

This eggplant dish with mozzarella and basil is not only delicious but also nutritious. Eggplants are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the cheeses add protein and calcium, contributing to a balanced diet. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has multiple health benefits.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other vegetables? Sure! You can add zucchini or bell peppers for a more colorful and healthy variant.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a tomato-based aperitif would be perfect to complement the dish's flavors.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Absolutely! You can assemble everything a day ahead and put it in the oven before serving.

I encourage you to try this eggplant dish with mozzarella and basil recipe, which will not only impress your guests but also bring you joy in every bite. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 2 large eggplants, 160 g cheese, 160 g mozzarella, 2 tablespoons grated parmesan, oil for frying the eggplants. Sauce: 2 cans (approx. 900 g) diced tomatoes Cirio, one head of garlic, 3 tablespoons dried basil, salt, pepper.

 Tags:  eggplant mozzarella basil candle