Biscuit with tomatoes, eggplant, and cheese is a delightful dish that celebrates fresh summer produce, blending Southern roots with Mediterranean influences. You'll start by roasting eggplant and layering it with fresh tomatoes and melted cheese, all nestled in flaky, buttery biscuits. It's a comforting, vegetarian meal packed with flavor and texture. If you're curious about the history and how to perfect this dish, there's plenty more to discover.
History
The history of biscuits dates back to ancient civilizations, where people baked unleavened bread-like products as staple foods.
In the 19th century, biscuits gained popularity in the United States, especially in the South, where they became a beloved side dish, often paired with rich gravies. Southern cooking embraced local produce, leading to the incorporation of tomatoes and eggplant into biscuit recipes. This not only highlighted regional flavors but also catered to the community's love for savory dishes.
Meanwhile, cheese emerged as a traditional ingredient, elevating the taste and texture of biscuits. The fusion of tomatoes, eggplant, and cheese in these recipes showcases the influence of Mediterranean cuisine, which has long celebrated these ingredients in its baked goods.
Recipe
This delightful biscuit casserole combines the rich flavors of roasted eggplant and fresh tomatoes with the creamy goodness of melted cheese, all nestled between flaky, buttery biscuits. It's a perfect dish to celebrate summer's bounty, taking advantage of the peak season for both eggplant and tomatoes. The combination of textures and flavors creates a comforting meal that isn't only satisfying but also vegetarian-friendly.
To start, you'll want to prepare a flaky biscuit dough that will serve as the base for your casserole. Using cold butter is key to achieving that perfect texture. As the biscuits bake, they'll rise and create a delightful contrast to the savory layers of roasted vegetables and gooey cheese. Incorporating fresh herbs like basil or oregano will elevate the dish further, offering a punch of freshness to balance the richness of the cheese and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced and roasted
- 3 large tomatoes, sliced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or muenster cheese
- Fresh basil or oregano, chopped
- Olive oil for roasting
Cooking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Begin by roasting the eggplant slices in a drizzle of olive oil for about 20 minutes or until tender and golden.
While the eggplant is roasting, prepare the biscuit dough by mixing the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then stir in the buttermilk until just combined.
In a greased baking dish, layer the roasted eggplant slices and fresh tomato slices, sprinkling chopped herbs and half of the cheese between the layers. Pour the biscuit dough over the top or drop spoonfuls of the dough for a rustic look. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cheese on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Extra Tips
For the best results, make sure your butter remains cold throughout the biscuit-making process to achieve that flaky texture.
If you want to add even more flavor, consider seasoning your roasted eggplant and tomatoes with salt and pepper before layering them.
Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties or herbs based on your preferences. Lastly, serve the dish warm and enjoy it with a side salad for a complete meal!
Cooking Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.
Slice the eggplant thinly and dip each piece in seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor and texture.
Once they're golden brown, layer them with cheese and tomatoes for a delicious combination.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
Preheating your oven to 375°F is crucial for achieving perfectly baked biscuits. This temperature ensures your biscuits develop a golden brown exterior while remaining fluffy on the inside.
To get started, allow your oven to preheat for at least 10-15 minutes. If you're using a lined baking sheet, make sure to lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. You'll want to check the temperature with an oven thermometer, as some ovens can be inaccurate.
As you prepare your ingredients, like eggplant slices, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and seasonings of salt and pepper, you'll set yourself up for success once the oven is ready. A properly preheated oven is key to even cooking and rising biscuits.
Step 2. Slice the Eggplant Thinly
Slice the eggplant into uniform 1/2-inch thick rounds for even cooking and a pleasing texture. Use a sharp chef's knife to make clean cuts, ensuring you don't bruise the eggplant from the inside.
To reduce bitterness, sprinkle the slices with Kosher salt and let them rest for 30 minutes. This draws out moisture and bitter compounds. Afterward, rinse the slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Now, you're ready to cook! Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and season the eggplant with black pepper. Once cooked, layer the eggplant with a slice of tomato and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Step 3. Dip in Seasoned Breadcrumbs
Once you've prepared the eggplant slices, it's time to bread them for a delicious crunch.
Start by setting up your breading station with seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring they're well-spiced with pepper to enhance the flavor.
First, dip each eggplant slice in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, coat them in beaten eggs before pressing them firmly into the seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring an even layer.
For optimal texture, let the breaded eggplant slices rest for a few minutes; this helps the breadcrumbs adhere better during frying. Additionally, using seasoned breadcrumbs can elevate the flavor profile of your dish.
When you're ready, fry the slices in hot oil until they turn golden brown. Remember to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring perfect frying and a delightful crunch every time.
Step 4. Bake Until Golden Brown
Get ready to bake your dish to perfection by preheating your oven to 400°F.
Once your biscuit dough is ready, dollop it over the ratatouille mixture on a large baking sheet, ensuring even coverage. This promotes a uniform baking process, so your biscuits bake until golden brown.
Cover with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning initially, then remove it halfway through. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, keeping an eye on the biscuits. They're done when they're deep golden brown. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
After baking, let the casserole sit for a few minutes at room temperature, allowing the biscuits to set and enhancing their texture.
Enjoy the delightful flavors with fresh basil leaves and tomato sauce!
Step 5. Layer With Cheese and Tomatoes
After your biscuits have baked to a golden perfection, it's time to layer your dish with the delicious ingredients that will make it shine.
Start by placing slices of roasted eggplant in your baking dish, ensuring they're evenly spaced for optimal flavor absorption. Next, add a generous layer of fresh tomato slices over the eggplant; this will enhance moisture and provide a burst of flavor during baking.
Sprinkle grated cheese like mozzarella or muenster on top of the tomatoes for a gooey, melty topping. Repeat the layering process with more eggplant, tomatoes, and cheese, creating multiple hearty layers.
Finish with a final layer of cheese on top to achieve a golden, bubbly crust, elevating both the dish's visual appeal and flavor—perfect for vegetarian meals!
Final Thoughts
Although you might be tempted to stick with traditional biscuit recipes, trying biscuits with tomatoes, eggplant, and cheese opens up a world of flavor that's both satisfying and nutritious.
Start by incorporating fresh ingredients, as they add extra moisture and depth. A sprinkle of salt enhances the taste, making each bite delightful.
Incorporating fresh ingredients adds moisture and depth, while a sprinkle of salt elevates flavor in every delightful bite.
Using parchment paper during baking helps achieve that golden brown finish, ensuring the cheese melds beautifully with the vegetables.
Remember, the first step is to avoid overmixing; this keeps your biscuits light and fluffy.
With great recipes and tips, you can easily make this versatile dish as a side or main course. Plus, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days—perfect for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do You Soak Eggplant in Water Before Cooking?
Oh sure, just throw that eggplant in a pan without a second thought, right?
Soaking eggplant in water actually helps draw out its bitterness and excess moisture. You don't want your dish tasting like a sponge, do you?
By soaking it for about 30 minutes, you soften it up, making it sweeter and more tender.
Just remember to rinse and pat it dry afterward; otherwise, you might end up with a salty surprise!
How Do You Eat Trader Joe's Eggplant With Tomatoes and Onions?
You can enjoy Trader Joe's Eggplant with Tomatoes and Onions in several ways.
Serve it as a savory side dish alongside grilled meats or pasta. You might also spoon it over cooked grains like quinoa or rice for a quick meal.
Try it as a topping on toasted bread for an easy appetizer, or mix it into scrambled eggs for a flavorful breakfast.
The options are endless, so get creative!
How Do You Stack Eggplant and Mozzarella Tomatoes?
To stack eggplant and mozzarella tomatoes, start by roasting the eggplant slices until they're tender and slightly browned.
Once they're ready, place a slice of roasted eggplant on a plate, then layer a slice of mozzarella on top.
Add a slice of fresh tomato next, creating a colorful contrast.
You can repeat the process for multiple layers, finishing with a sprinkle of basil or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Enjoy!
What Is the Traditional French Dish With Eggplant?
The traditional French dish featuring eggplant is Ratatouille.
It's a delightful vegetable stew that combines eggplant with zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions, all seasoned with herbs.
You can prepare it by simmering or baking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Enjoy it hot or cold, making it perfect for any occasion.
Plus, it's visually stunning, showcasing vibrant colors.
