Eggplant unleashed: Discover the secret to perfect pan‑fry
Eggplant, often referred to as the "love pear," is a vegetable with exceptional nutritional value and versatile culinary uses. Learn how to prepare pan-fried eggplant that will delight with its taste and aroma.
While eggplant is often underestimated in our cuisine, it is actually a true culinary treasure. Its delicate flavor and rich nutrients make it a worthwhile addition to your daily menu. In global cuisines, particularly Mediterranean cuisine, eggplant is an indispensable ingredient in many dishes.
Eggplant is low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like calcium and potassium. Its benefits include supporting heart health, aiding in weight loss, and providing protection against cancer. It’s a vegetable you definitely want in your diet.
How to prepare eggplant?
Choosing the right eggplant is the first step to success. Look for ones with smooth, glossy skin, free of blemishes or damage. The eggplant should feel firm and heavy for its size.
Before frying, the eggplant needs proper preparation. Cut it into slices about 0.4 inches thick, salt them, and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This process removes bitterness and enhances flavor.
Breaded Eggplant
Ingredients:
- 1 eggplant
- 40 grams (1.4 oz) of Parmesan cheese
- 80 grams (2.8 oz) of breadcrumbs
- 50 grams (1.8 oz) of flour
- 2 eggs
- Oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Method:
- Slice the eggplant into approximately 0.4-inch thick slices and salt each one. Place them in a colander and cover with a weight for 45-60 minutes.
- Rinse the eggplant slices, then dry them with a cloth or paper towel.
- On a plate, set out the flour. Beat the eggs with salt and pepper, and mix the breadcrumbs with finely grated cheese.
- Bread the eggplant slices in flour, then egg, and finally in the breadcrumb-cheese mixture.
- Fry the prepared slices in well-heated oil.
- Serve them sprinkled with salt.
Eggplant with Additions
Ingredients:
- 1 eggplant
- 100 grams (3.5 oz) of bacon slices
- 100 grams (3.5 oz) of Gouda cheese slices
- 1 egg
- Wheat flour
- Bread crumbs
- Olive oil
- Salt to taste
How to fry eggplant in a pan? Tips
For frying eggplant, it's best to use a pan with a non-stick coating. Opt for oils with a high smoke point, such as canola or olive oil. Heat the pan over medium heat.
Fry the eggplant on both sides until golden and crispy. Be cautious not to use too much oil, as eggplant absorbs it easily. After frying, drain the slices on a paper towel.
