Baked Eggplant with Stracchino and Parmesan Cheese

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This delicious Baked Eggplant with Stracchino and Parmesan Cheese recipe is an excellent choice for a comforting and savory dish. The eggplant is roasted until tender, combined with sautéed leek, garlic, and a creamy cheese filling, then baked to golden perfection. With the added richness of stracchino and Parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit for any occasion.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 4 servings

Cuisine This dish is inspired by Mediterranean flavors, particularly from Italy, where eggplant and soft cheeses like stracchino are commonly used in savory recipes.

Full List of Ingredients

  • For the Eggplant:

    • 1 eggplant
    • Salt (for draining)
    • Olive oil for cooking

  • For the Filling:

    • 1 leek or onion, finely chopped
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 cup of water
    • 250g (9 oz) wheat flour
    • Breadcrumbs for coating

  • For the Cheese Filling:

    • 300g (11 oz) stracchino or crescenza cheese
    • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

  1. Prepare the Eggplant:

    • Slice the eggplant into rounds or halves, depending on your preference. Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

  2. Sauté the Leek and Garlic:

    • In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped leek or onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and golden brown.

  3. Cook the Eggplant:

    • After the eggplant has drained, rinse off the salt and pat the slices dry with a paper towel. Add them to the pan with the leek and garlic mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Cover the pan and cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the eggplant to soften and absorb the flavors.

  4. Prepare the Batter:

    • In a separate bowl, mix 250g of wheat flour with water to form a smooth batter. Add a pinch of salt and a bit of olive oil to taste.

  5. Coat the Eggplant:

    • Dip the cooked eggplant slices into the flour batter and then coat them with breadcrumbs. This will give the eggplant a crunchy texture when baked.

  6. Assemble the Dish:

    • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the coated eggplant slices in a baking dish. Top each slice with a generous spoonful of stracchino cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

  7. Bake:

    • Bake the dish in the preheated oven for about 7-10 minutes, until the eggplant is golden and crispy on the outside.

  8. Serve:

    • Once the eggplant is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe Eggplant is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, often used in both savory and sweet dishes. The combination of eggplant with creamy cheeses like stracchino (or crescenza) is common in Italy, where these cheeses add richness and flavor to a variety of vegetable-based recipes. This dish takes advantage of eggplant’s mild flavor, pairing it with garlic, leek, and cheese to create a savory baked delight.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of soft, creamy cheese and tender eggplant is both comforting and flavorful.
  • Crispy and Cheesy: The breadcrumb coating adds a crispy texture, while the melted cheese offers a creamy, gooey bite.
  • Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is perfect for vegetarians looking for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in Fiber: Eggplant is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
  • Low in Calories: Despite being a filling dish, eggplant is relatively low in calories, making it a great choice for a light meal.
  • Packed with Nutrients: Eggplant contains important nutrients like vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like potassium, which are beneficial for overall health.

Serving Suggestions

  • With a Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon juice for a fresh contrast to the rich eggplant and cheese.
  • As an Appetizer: These baked eggplant slices can be served as an appetizer or side dish at your next dinner party.
  • With Crusty Bread: Pair the dish with a slice of crusty bread to soak up any remaining cheese and flavors.

Cooking Tips

  • Be Sure to Drain the Eggplant: Draining the eggplant before cooking helps to remove excess moisture, preventing the dish from becoming soggy.
  • Use a Non-stick Pan: To ensure the eggplant slices cook evenly and don’t stick, use a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast iron skillet.
  • Add More Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add extra Parmesan or even mozzarella for an even richer flavor.

Variations to Try

  • Add a Meat Layer: Add a layer of cooked ground beef or sausage to the casserole for a heartier dish.
  • Spicy Version: Spice up the dish by adding chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling.
  • Vegan Version: Substitute the stracchino and Parmesan with plant-based cheeses for a vegan-friendly alternative.

Conclusion This Baked Eggplant with Stracchino and Parmesan Cheese is a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal. The combination of tender, flavorful eggplant with melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs makes for an irresistible dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy eggplant or just craving a comforting meal, this recipe is a perfect choice.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use mozzarella, gouda, or any other soft, melting cheese if you prefer.

  2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven.

  3. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked dish. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.

  4. Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for the coating and batter.

  5. How do I know when the dish is done? The dish is done when the top is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  6. Can I add other vegetables? Yes, you can add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

  7. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

  8. Can I make this dish vegan? Yes, substitute the cheese with vegan alternatives to make this dish vegan-friendly.

  9. Can I add meat to the filling? Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or bacon for a more filling version of this dish.

  10. How do I serve this dish? This dish can be served as a main course with a side of salad or as an appetizer. Pair it with some crusty bread for a more complete meal.

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