15 Southern Italian Eggplant Parmesan Recipe Delight In These Amazing Recipes!

The History of Southern Italian Eggplant Parmesan

The Origins

The origins of eggplant parmesan can be traced back to the southern Italian region of Campania, particularly the city of Naples. It is believed that the dish was created in the 16th century when tomatoes were first introduced to Italy. The original version of the dish did not include eggplant, but rather used sliced fried zucchini as the main ingredient. However, as eggplant became more popular in the region, it was soon incorporated into the recipe.

Evolution of the Recipe

As the dish gained popularity, it also underwent some changes and variations. In the past, eggplant parmesan was made with layers of eggplant, tomato sauce, and parmesan cheese, and was served as a side dish. However, as it made its way to America with Italian immigrants, it evolved into a main course with the addition of mozzarella cheese and often served with pasta.

Southern Italian vs. Northern Italian Eggplant Parmesan

There is a debate among Italians about the proper way to make eggplant parmesan. In the north, the dish is often made with a lighter touch, using less tomato sauce and cheese, and sometimes even without breading the eggplant. On the other hand, in the south, it is common to use a generous amount of tomato sauce and cheese, and the eggplant is always breaded before frying. Regardless of the differences, one thing is for sure - both versions are equally delicious.

Making Southern Italian Eggplant Parmesan at Home

Now that we know the history of this beloved dish, let's dive into the process of making it at home. Here is a simple and authentic southern Italian eggplant parmesan recipe that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants
- Salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Slice the eggplants into 1/2 inch rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out any excess moisture. 3. Rinse the eggplant slices and pat them dry with a paper towel. 4. In three separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. 5. Dip each eggplant slice in the flour, then the eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat both sides evenly. 6. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded eggplant slices and fry until golden brown on both sides. 7. Drain the fried eggplant slices on a paper towel-lined plate. 8. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. 9. Place a layer of fried eggplant slices on top, followed by another layer of tomato sauce, grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese. 10. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used, making sure to end with a layer of cheese on top. 11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. 12. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy your homemade southern Italian eggplant parmesan. In conclusion, southern Italian eggplant parmesan is a delicious and timeless dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. With its rich history and simple yet flavorful ingredients, it's no wonder it has become a beloved staple in Italian cuisine. So next time you're craving some comfort food, give this recipe a try and transport your taste buds to the beautiful region of Southern Italy.