Eggplant Puree
To prepare a delicious eggplant dish, start by roasting the eggplants until the skin turns black and the flesh becomes soft. You can use either a grill or an oven preheated to 200 degrees Celsius. Once the eggplants have cooled, peel them and chop them finely, as for a classic eggplant salad. This will be the base of your recipe.
In a deep pan, melt a generous piece of butter over medium heat. Make sure the butter does not burn, as the flavors can alter. Once the butter has completely melted, gradually add the flour, continuously stirring with a wooden spatula or a whisk, until you obtain a smooth cream. It is important to stir constantly to avoid the formation of lumps. Let the mixture cook for about a minute so that the flour loses its raw taste.
After obtaining a fine paste, begin to pour in the milk, but not all at once; add it in a thin stream, continuously stirring, similar to making mayonnaise. This technique will help prevent lumps from forming and will ensure a creamy sauce. Once you have incorporated all the milk, let the sauce simmer over low heat for two minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the chopped eggplants. Mix well to incorporate them into the white sauce, letting everything simmer over low heat for a few minutes. Now is the time to season the mixture with salt, pepper, and vegeta, adjusting the amount according to your preferences. Some prefer to add a pinch of crushed garlic or even a bit of chili pepper for a stronger taste.
Finally, add the diced cheese, which will give the dish a creamy texture and a savory flavor. Let it simmer for another minute, stirring gently to allow the cheese to melt evenly. Once the dish is ready, serve it warm, alongside a simple side of toasted bread or with a fresh salad. This eggplant puree with white sauce is a perfect choice for a light lunch or a delicious dinner. The delight will surely please the taste buds of everyone who enjoys it.
Ingredients: 5 small eggplants, 70g hard cheese, 50g butter, 1 tablespoon flour, 250ml hot milk, salt, vegetable seasoning, and pepper to taste.
