Written by: Nonna Maria · Expert in Italian Cuisine, Gluten-Free Cooking, Traditional Recipes
Published: April 21, 2024
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Nonna's Gluten-free Eggplant Parmesan: Layers Of Flavor
Photo by Zen Chung on Pexels.
Introduction
Nonna's gluten-free eggplant parmesan is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the rich and hearty flavors of traditional eggplant parmesan with a gluten-free twist, making it accessible to everyone.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Slice the eggplants into 1/2 inch rounds and season with salt. Let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out any bitterness.
- In a shallow dish, combine the gluten-free breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and dried basil. Dredge each eggplant slice in the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until they are golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top, followed by more sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the eggplant parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with a side salad or some crusty gluten-free bread.
Tips
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the dish for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make sure to use a good quality marinara sauce for the best results.
Variations
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast in place of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- You can also make this dish vegan by skipping the cheese altogether and layering the fried eggplant with a tofu ricotta mixture.
Conclusion
Nonna's gluten-free eggplant parmesan is a dish that will satisfy all your cravings for comfort food. With its layers of flavor and gooey melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you follow a gluten-free diet or simply want to try a new twist on a classic recipe, this eggplant parmesan is a must-try. Buon appetito!
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