Baked eggplant with veal, crafted by Chef Zaza Shengelia at Tkemali Restaurant, brings together the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. You'll enjoy tender veal cutlets layered with crispy fried eggplant, all smothered in a savory tomato sauce and melted cheese. This dish highlights the cultural significance of Italian culinary traditions and communal dining. It's a hearty, flavorful experience that celebrates family recipes. Discover more about how to recreate this delightful dish at home.
History
Baked eggplant with veal embodies the rich culinary history of the Mediterranean, especially reflecting Sicilian traditions. This dish showcases the deep-rooted connection to locally sourced ingredients, like fresh eggplant and tender veal, staples in Mediterranean diets for centuries.
Eggplant's journey began in the 8th century when the Moors introduced it to Europe, where it flourished in Italian cooking. Meanwhile, veal has held a prominent place in Italian cuisine since Roman times, celebrated for its flavor and tenderness.
The combination of eggplant and veal in baked forms highlights the evolution of family recipes, passed down through generations. It also emphasizes the significance of communal dining in Mediterranean cultures, where sharing food strengthens familial and social bonds.
Recipe
Baked Eggplant with Veal is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of pounded veal cutlets and crispy fried eggplant, all enveloped in a luscious tomato sauce. This traditional Sicilian recipe is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, bringing warmth and comfort to the table. The layers of tender veal, savory eggplant, and gooey melted cheese create a satisfying meal that's both hearty and delicious.
Baked Eggplant with Veal offers a comforting blend of flavors, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
To prepare this dish, you'll first need to create a vibrant tomato sauce that serves as the foundation for the layers. Sautéing onions and garlic brings out their natural sweetness, which complements the acidity of the crushed tomatoes. As the sauce simmers, it thickens, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
The eggplant slices, when fried to a golden crisp, provide a contrast in texture that elevates the overall experience of this baked dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 thinly pounded veal cutlets
- 2 large eggplants, sliced
- 1 cup flour, seasoned
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Olive oil, for frying
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by preparing the tomato sauce: heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes until it thickens.
While the sauce is cooking, coat each eggplant slice in seasoned flour and shallow-fry them in olive oil until golden brown on both sides. Drain the fried eggplant on paper towels to keep them crispy.
In a baking dish, layer half of the tomato sauce, followed by half of the veal cutlets, half of the fried eggplant, and half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers and finish with the remaining cheese on top. Bake in a moderately hot oven (350°F) for 20-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, choose firm, fresh eggplants to ensure they hold up during frying and baking. When frying the eggplant, make sure the oil is hot enough to create a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.
Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs and spices in your tomato sauce to suit your taste. Consider letting the assembled dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the layers to set, making it easier to serve.
Garnish generously with fresh parsley before serving for an added burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Cooking Steps
To start cooking your baked eggplant with veal, preheat your oven to 375°F.
Next, slice the eggplant into rounds and season them with salt to enhance the flavor.
Finally, layer the ingredients in your baking dish, and you're ready to bake!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
Before you start assembling your dish, preheat the oven to 375°F, ensuring it reaches the right temperature for even cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden brown finish.
Make sure to allow the oven to fully preheat before placing your assembled dish inside. You can use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven's temperature settings are accurate; variations might affect your cooking times.
While the oven's warming up, take the opportunity to prepare your ingredients, so everything's ready for assembly. Additionally, just as color accuracy is vital for optimal viewing in a home cinema, precise temperature control is essential for achieving the best results in your cooking.
Once the dish is in the oven, keep an eye on it, adjusting the baking time as needed to reach your desired level of doneness and crispiness.
Enjoy the process!
Step 2. Slice Eggplant Into Rounds
Start by selecting 1 or 2 firm, fresh eggplants, as their quality will directly impact your dish's flavor and texture.
Using a sharp knife, slice the eggplant into 1cm thick rounds. This thickness ensures even cooking and better layering in your bake. If you want to reduce bitterness, consider peeling the eggplant before slicing, since the skin can sometimes contribute an unpleasant taste.
After slicing, place the rounds in a colander and sprinkle them with salt. This step draws out excess moisture, enhancing the final dish's texture.
Once you've prepared the slices, you can dredge them in seasoned flour for a crispy exterior when cooked. Remember, a sprinkle of pepper can elevate the overall flavor.
Step 3. Season Eggplant With Salt
As you prepare the sliced eggplant, generously sprinkle salt over the rounds to draw out moisture and reduce any bitterness.
Let the salted eggplant sit for about 30 minutes; this resting time helps soften the flesh and enhances its flavor.
Afterward, rinse the salted eggplant under cold water to remove the excess salt and bitterness, then pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving the best texture.
If you're frying the eggplant, consider coating it in seasoned flour for a flavorful crust that'll give you a crispy finish.
Remember to ensure the oil temperature is hot enough to achieve that golden-brown look without absorbing too much oil.
Enjoy your flavorful eggplant!
Step 4. Layer Ingredients in Baking Dish
Once you've prepared the components, layer the ingredients in your baking dish to build a delicious foundation.
Start by spreading the prepared tomato sauce evenly at the bottom; this creates a flavorful base.
Next, place the cooked veal cutlets in a single layer on top, ensuring they're evenly spaced for proper baking.
Then, overlap the shallow-fried eggplant slices over the veal, letting the edges slightly overlap for a cohesive look.
Finally, generously sprinkle a mixture of mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the eggplant layer. This will help achieve a rich, bubbly crust as it bakes.
With everything layered perfectly, you're ready to move on to the next step!
Step 5. Bake for 30 Minutes
After layering your ingredients, you'll want to bake the dish for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (approximately 200°C) to ensure even cooking.
Once your oven is hot, place the assembled dish inside. The goal is to let the mozzarella and parmesan cheese melt together, creating a rich, cheesy topping. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to turn golden brown and bubbly. This is when the flavors meld beautifully.
After 30 minutes, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time will enhance the flavors and make it easier to slice.
Enjoy your delicious baked eggplant with veal!
Final Thoughts
While exploring the baked eggplant with veal, you'll discover how this dish beautifully marries tradition with modern flair.
Chef Zaza Shengelia's creation showcases tender veal layered with crispy eggplant, all enhanced by a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese.
You'll appreciate the expert technique of dredging and frying the eggplant, ensuring it remains crisp and complements the veal perfectly.
Baking at a high temperature melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in that golden, bubbly cheese topping we all crave.
Plus, it's a celebration of family culinary traditions, inviting you to embrace the joy of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Leave the Skin on Eggplant When You Bake It?
When you bake eggplant, whether to leave the skin on or peel it depends on your preference and the dish.
If you want a smoother texture, peeling's the way to go. However, if you're after added nutrients and a bit of texture, keeping the skin can work, as long as the eggplant's fresh.
Just remember, older eggplants might taste more bitter, so choose wisely based on what you're preparing!
What Does Baked Eggplant Taste Like?
Imagine sinking your fork into a velvety slice of baked eggplant, its rich, savory sweetness wrapping around your taste buds like a warm embrace.
You'll savor its soft, creamy texture, enhanced by the magical blend of garlic, herbs, and cheesy goodness.
Each bite dances between savory and slightly tangy notes, creating a delicious symphony of flavors.
Baked eggplant is a versatile delight that can transform any meal into a memorable culinary experience.
How Does Gordon Ramsay Cook Eggplant?
When you cook eggplant, think about salting it first to draw out moisture and bitterness.
After rinsing and patting it dry, you can roast or grill it for a healthier method that enhances its smoky flavor.
Cut the eggplant into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Don't forget to add garlic, herbs, and spices to bring out its natural sweetness, and consider pairing it with tomatoes and mozzarella for a delicious dish.
What Is the Difference Between Eggplant Parmesan and Eggplant Parmigiana?
Imagine yourself in a cozy Italian trattoria, savoring layers of deliciousness.
The difference between eggplant Parmesan and eggplant Parmigiana mainly lies in terminology. While "Parmigiana" hails from Italian roots, "Parmesan" resonates more with American kitchens.
Both feature fried eggplant, marinara sauce, and ooey-gooey cheese, but Parmigiana might include extras like basil or garlic, tailoring it to personal taste.
Regardless, both dishes are a comforting vegetarian delight worth trying!
