No Frying! Eggplants That Drive Everyone Crazy! Simple and Cheap Recipe

Are you tired of the same old eggplant recipes? Looking for something that will tantalize your taste buds without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This simple and cheap recipe for baked eggplants will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, you won’t believe how easy it is to make! Let’s dive right in.

Introduction

Eggplants, also known as aubergines, are a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in various ways. However, if you’re tired of the same old fried eggplant dishes, we have a treat for you! In this article, we’ll explore a simple and cheap recipe for baked eggplants that are sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

To make these irresistible baked eggplants, you’ll need:

  • 2 eggplants (about 16 slices)
  • 5.3 oz (about 150 g) tomato puree
  • 3.5 oz (about 100 g) grated light cheese
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 1 bunch of chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • A few breadcrumbs
  • Enough aromatic herbs to taste
  • Enough dried garlic
  • Enough smoked paprika (optional)
  • Enough pepper
  • Enough salt

Preparation

Flavor-Packed Marination

First, let’s prepare the eggplants for baking. Trim them and cut them into round slices about 1 centimeter thick. Place the slices in a bowl, sprinkle them with a teaspoon of salt, and cover them with water. Let them rest for 10 minutes to remove any bitterness.

While the eggplants are resting, prepare a flavorful marination. In a bowl, combine one clove of chopped garlic, chopped parsley, salt, aromatic herbs, smoked paprika, pepper, and a few tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Mix everything well to create a fragrant marinade.

Baking the Eggplants

After 10 minutes, drain the eggplant slices and pat them dry with absorbent paper. Place them on a baking tray lined with greaseproof paper coated with garlic-flavored oil. Using a knife, make shallow cuts on the surface of the eggplant slices and brush them with the flavored oil. Bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30 minutes until they’re tender and slightly golden.

Stuffing with Tomato Paste and Cheese

While the eggplants are baking, prepare the stuffing. In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste with salt, dried basil, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Add two grated garlic cloves and combine everything thoroughly.

Once the eggplants are baked, remove them from the oven and carefully stuff them with the tomato paste mixture and grated cheese. Fold each eggplant slice in half to create a half-moon shape.

Final Touches and Baking Again

Transfer the stuffed eggplants to an oiled glass baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on the bottom for an extra crunch. Return the dish to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes at 180°C until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

These delicious baked eggplants can be served hot out of the oven as a main dish or alongside your favorite sides. Pair them with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Benefits of Baked Eggplants

Baked eggplants offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried dishes. By avoiding frying, you reduce the amount of oil and calories in the recipe, making it suitable for those watching their waistlines. Additionally, baking helps retain more nutrients and flavors, ensuring you get the maximum health benefits from this nutritious vegetable.

FAQs

1. Are baked eggplants healthier than fried ones?

Yes, baking eggplants reduces the amount of oil and calories compared to frying, making them a healthier option.

2. Can I use different types of cheese for stuffing?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed eggplants ahead of time and bake them when ready to serve for added convenience.

4. Can I freeze leftover baked eggplants?

While baked eggplants can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. It’s best to enjoy them fresh for the best taste and texture.

5. Can I adjust the seasoning according to my taste?

Of course! Feel free to adjust the seasoning and spices in the recipe to suit your personal preferences and taste buds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these baked eggplants are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up a flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. So why wait? Try this recipe today and experience the magic of no-fry eggplants that will drive everyone crazy!