Eggplant parmesan sandwich, a classic Italian-American dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. This mouth-watering sandwich is a staple in many Italian restaurants and households, and for good reason. The combination of crispy eggplant slices, rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves, all sandwiched between a crusty bread roll, is a match made in heaven. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect eggplant parmesan sandwich, from preparing the eggplant slices to assembling the final product.
Preparing the Eggplant Slices
The key to a great eggplant parmesan sandwich lies in the preparation of the eggplant slices. You want them to be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, without being too greasy or soggy. Here’s how to achieve that:
Choosing the Right Eggplant
When it comes to choosing the right eggplant for your parmesan sandwich, you want to opt for a firm and heavy eggplant with a deep purple color. Avoid eggplants that are too soft or have brown spots, as they may be too ripe and bitter.
Salting the Eggplant Slices
Once you have chosen your eggplant, slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or tray, and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let the eggplant slices sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the salt to draw out excess moisture. This step is crucial in removing bitterness from the eggplant and helping it brown more evenly.
Dredging the Eggplant Slices
After the eggplant slices have sat for 30 minutes, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a shallow dish, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Dredge the eggplant slices in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Breading and Frying the Eggplant Slices
Now that your eggplant slices are prepared, it’s time to bread and fry them. Here’s how:
Preparing the Breading Station
In a shallow dish, mix together 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. In another dish, beat 2 eggs. You will also need a plate or tray for the breaded eggplant slices.
Breading the Eggplant Slices
Dip each eggplant slice in the beaten eggs, coating both sides evenly. Then, coat the eggplant slice in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the eggplant to ensure they stick. Place the breaded eggplant slice on the plate or tray, and repeat with the remaining eggplant slices.
Frying the Eggplant Slices
Heat about 1/2-inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add a few breaded eggplant slices to the skillet (do not overcrowd). Fry the eggplant slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices.
Assembling the Eggplant Parmesan Sandwich
Now that your eggplant slices are fried, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s how:
Preparing the Marinara Sauce
In a small saucepan, heat up about 1 cup of marinara sauce over medium heat. You can use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
Assembling the Sandwich
Preheat your broiler. Slice a crusty bread roll in half, and place the bottom half on a baking sheet. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bread, followed by a few slices of fried eggplant. Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese over the eggplant, and top with a few fresh basil leaves. Place the top half of the bread roll on the sandwich, and sprinkle some more mozzarella cheese on top.
Broiling the Sandwich
Place the baking sheet under the broiler, and broil the sandwich for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your eggplant parmesan sandwich to the next level:
Using Fresh Mozzarella Cheese
Using fresh mozzarella cheese will give your sandwich a more authentic Italian flavor. Look for fresh mozzarella cheese at your local Italian market or specialty store.
Adding Some Spice
If you like a little heat in your sandwich, you can add some red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or sprinkle some sliced hot peppers on top of the eggplant.
Using Different Types of Bread
While a crusty bread roll is traditional, you can also use other types of bread, such as a sub roll or a ciabatta roll. Experiment with different types of bread to find your favorite.
Conclusion
Making the perfect eggplant parmesan sandwich requires some time and effort, but the end result is well worth it. By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious and authentic Italian-American dish that will impress your family and friends. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the ooey-gooey cheesy goodness of the perfect eggplant parmesan sandwich!
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplant | 2 medium |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Marinara sauce | 1 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1/4 cup |
| Olive oil | 1/2 cup |
Note: The ingredients listed are for 4-6 sandwiches. You can adjust the quantity as needed.
What is the best type of eggplant to use for eggplant parmesan sandwiches?
The best type of eggplant to use for eggplant parmesan sandwiches is a matter of personal preference, but generally, it’s recommended to use a variety that is firm and has a mild flavor. Some popular options include globe eggplants, Italian eggplants, and Japanese eggplants. Globe eggplants are the most commonly available and work well for this recipe. Italian eggplants are slightly smaller and have a more delicate flavor, while Japanese eggplants are longer and thinner, making them ideal for slicing into thin rounds.
Regardless of the variety, it’s essential to choose an eggplant that is heavy for its size and has a glossy skin. Avoid eggplants with soft spots or wrinkles, as they may be past their prime. You can also use other varieties of eggplant, such as fairy eggplants or graffiti eggplants, but keep in mind that they may have a slightly different flavor and texture.
How do I prepare the eggplant slices for breading and frying?
To prepare the eggplant slices for breading and frying, start by slicing the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or tray, and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let the eggplant slices sit for at least 30 minutes to allow excess moisture to be drawn out. This step is crucial in helping the breading adhere to the eggplant and preventing it from becoming too greasy.
After the eggplant slices have sat for 30 minutes, rinse them under cold running water to remove excess salt and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture and prevents the breading from becoming too soggy. You can then proceed with dredging the eggplant slices in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and frying them until golden brown and crispy.
What type of breadcrumbs should I use for breading the eggplant slices?
The type of breadcrumbs to use for breading the eggplant slices is a matter of personal preference, but generally, it’s recommended to use Panko breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crisper than regular breadcrumbs, which helps to create a crunchier exterior on the eggplant slices. They also have a milder flavor, which won’t overpower the other ingredients in the sandwich.
You can also use regular breadcrumbs or even gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer. However, keep in mind that regular breadcrumbs may produce a denser coating, while gluten-free breadcrumbs may be more prone to falling off during frying. It’s essential to choose a breadcrumb that complements the other ingredients in the sandwich and provides the desired texture.
How do I assemble the perfect eggplant parmesan sandwich?
To assemble the perfect eggplant parmesan sandwich, start by spreading a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom slice of bread. This helps to add moisture and flavor to the sandwich. Next, add a few slices of fried eggplant, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Finally, top the eggplant slices with the top slice of bread, and drizzle with a bit more marinara sauce. You can also add some chopped fresh basil leaves for extra flavor and color. The key to assembling the perfect eggplant parmesan sandwich is to balance the flavors and textures, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination.
Can I bake the eggplant slices instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the eggplant slices instead of frying them. Baking is a healthier alternative to frying, and it can produce a crispy exterior and a tender interior. To bake the eggplant slices, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Dip the eggplant slices in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle the eggplant slices with a bit of olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You can also broil the eggplant slices for an extra 2-3 minutes to get a crisper exterior. Keep in mind that baking may produce a slightly different texture and flavor than frying, but it’s a great alternative for those looking for a healthier option.
How do I store leftover eggplant parmesan sandwiches?
To store leftover eggplant parmesan sandwiches, it’s best to store the components separately. Wrap the fried eggplant slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the eggplant slices for up to 2 months.
Store the marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving, and store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also reheat the sandwiches in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy meal.
Can I make eggplant parmesan sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make eggplant parmesan sandwiches ahead of time. In fact, making the components ahead of time can help to save time and reduce stress when assembling the sandwiches. You can fry the eggplant slices up to a day in advance, and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to assemble.
You can also make the marinara sauce and shred the mozzarella cheese up to a day in advance. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving, and store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the sandwiches are best served fresh, but making the components ahead of time can help to make the assembly process much easier.