There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that you can enjoy any time of the day, whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Our easy and delicious eggplant dish fits this bill perfectly. Combining the rich, savory flavors of eggplant, eggs, ham, and cheese, this recipe is a surefire way to tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Not only is it delicious and versatile, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect go-to meal for busy days or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- 4 eggs
- Dried ham (100 grams) – 3.5 ounces (Prosciutto or any other preferred type)
- Your favorite cheese (150 grams) – 5.3 ounces (Mozzarella, Cheddar, or a mix)
- Salt, pepper, and oregano to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Eggplant
- Slice the Eggplant: Begin by washing the eggplant thoroughly. Cut it into 1/2-inch thick circles. This ensures that the eggplant cooks evenly and has a nice, tender texture.
- Season and Fry: Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps to draw out any bitterness. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices on both sides until they are golden brown and tender. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Preparing the Egg Mixture
- Beat the Eggs: In a medium-sized bowl, crack the eggs and beat them well until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and oregano to taste. This mixture will act as the binding agent for the dish, giving it a wonderful texture and flavor.
- Heat the Pan: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and heat it over medium heat. Make sure the oil is well distributed across the surface of the pan to prevent sticking.
Assembling the Dish
- First Layer of Eggplant and Eggs: Pour half of the beaten eggs into the heated pan. Immediately arrange half of the fried eggplant slices on top of the egg mixture in a single layer. This base layer ensures that the eggplant is well-integrated with the eggs, creating a cohesive dish.
- Add the Ham and Cheese: Lay the slices of dried ham over the eggplant layer. Make sure to cover the eggplant evenly. Then, sprinkle the grated or sliced cheese over the ham. The cheese will melt and bind the layers together, adding a rich and creamy texture to the dish.
- Top Layer of Eggplant and Eggs: Place the remaining eggplant slices on top of the cheese. Pour the remaining beaten eggs over this final layer. This top layer of eggs will help to seal the ingredients together, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully.
Cooking to Perfection
- Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Allow the dish to cook slowly for about 10-12 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The low heat ensures that the eggs cook evenly without burning the bottom.
- Check for Doneness: To check if the dish is done, gently shake the pan. If the eggs are set and the cheese is melted, it’s ready to go. You can also insert a knife into the center to see if it comes out clean.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the dish to firm up slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. Slice into wedges and serve warm.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
Conclusion
This eggplant dish is not only incredibly tasty and satisfying, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. The combination of eggplant, eggs, ham, and cheese creates a flavorful and filling dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal to whip up on a busy day or a comforting dish to enjoy with family and friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
