Randy Chandler
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that can be easily adapted to be gluten-free and vegetarian. The key ingredients are eggplant, marinara sauce, and cheese—typically a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan. However, it is possible to make a delicious version of this dish without cheese. To make eggplant Parmesan without cheese, you can simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make the best eggplant Parmesan without cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation time | Varies, but some recipes take 30 minutes or more |
| Cooking time | 20-35 minutes |
| Oven temperature | 350-420°F |
| Oven setting | Bake or broil |
| Ingredients | Eggplant, breadcrumbs, eggs, flour, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian herbs, oregano, basil, thyme, garlic |
| Variations | Gluten-free, vegan, no breadcrumbs, no cheese |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Gluten-free eggplant parmesan
Ingredients
- 1 eggplant, peeled into long strips 1/4-inch thick
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free bread crumbs
- Eggs
- Parmesan cheese
- Spaghetti sauce
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Mozzarella cheese
- Basil
- Gluten-free flour
- Almond milk
- Cornstarch
- Gluten-free panko bread crumbs
- Oregano
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the bread crumbs into a shallow bowl. Dip the eggplant into the eggs; coat with gluten-free bread crumbs. Place in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet; lightly sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 6 minutes; remove from the oven. Flip the eggplant with a spatula; brush with olive oil. Bake until golden brown, about 6 minutes. Remove from the oven; reduce heat to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Spread spaghetti sauce into a 7x11-inch baking pan to cover the bottom; layer on some of the eggplant slices. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the eggplant; top with Parmesan cheese. Repeat layering sauce, eggplant, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese in this order; top with basil. Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden, about 25 minutes.
For a crispier version, dip eggplant slices in gluten-free flour, then almond milk and cornstarch, and finish with a mixture of gluten-free panko bread crumbs, vegan parmesan cheese, and cornmeal. Saute over medium heat until light golden brown, and finish in the oven until crispy.
Note: This dish tastes even better the next day, so it can be a good make-ahead option.
Lasagna's Parmesan Cheese: Should You Include It?
You may want to see also
Baking vs. frying eggplant
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic dish that can be made by frying or baking the eggplant slices. Frying the eggplant slices involves dipping them in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs before frying them in a skillet pan with oil for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This method creates a crispy texture and is relatively faster. However, it can be messier due to oil splatter and may not be as healthy.
On the other hand, baking the eggplant slices involves a similar process of dipping them in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, but instead of frying, they are placed on a baking sheet and cooked in the oven. Baking is often preferred as it is less messy, healthier, and can produce a large batch for freezing. The high heat of the oven ensures a crispy texture similar to frying. However, baking may require a longer cooking time and a more complex assembly process.
When baking eggplant slices, it is important to preheat the oven to a temperature between 350 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The eggplant slices are then arranged on a baking sheet coated with oil or cooking spray. Baking time varies, but it typically ranges from 10 to 35 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the slices.
Frying eggplant slices typically involves a shallow frying method using a skillet pan. Add a small amount of oil to the pan, and cook the breaded eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This method creates a crispy exterior and a soft interior. It is important to fry the eggplant slices in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Both methods of cooking eggplant slices have their advantages and disadvantages. Frying may be faster and produce a more intense crispy texture, but it can be messier and less healthy due to the use of oil. Baking, on the other hand, offers a healthier alternative, allows for easier cleanup, and provides the option to make a large batch for freezing. However, baking may require more time and attention to assemble the dish and ensure even cooking.
Parmesan Cheese and Gas: What's the Connection?
You may want to see also
Layering eggplant with sauce
To layer eggplant with sauce, start by preparing your sauce. You can make your own marinara sauce by simmering crushed tomatoes with oregano and thyme for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can use store-bought marinara sauce or another tomato-based sauce of your choice.
Once you have your sauce ready, it's time to start layering. First, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. This will help prevent the eggplant from sticking to the dish and will add moisture to the dish. You can use a baking dish that is about 9x13 inches or 9 inches square.
Next, add a layer of eggplant slices. Try to cut your eggplant slices evenly, as this will ensure even cooking. You can either bread the eggplant slices before assembling or simply use plain eggplant slices. If you choose to bread the eggplant, dip the slices in a flour and egg mixture, followed by breadcrumbs. You can also season the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for extra flavour.
After adding the first layer of eggplant slices, spoon some sauce over the eggplant and spread it evenly. You can also add some mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce, if desired.
Repeat these layers until you reach the top of the dish, ending with a layer of sauce. You can sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce, if desired.
Finally, cover the baking dish with aluminium foil and bake in the oven. The baking temperature and time may vary depending on your oven and the recipe you are following. However, a general guideline is to bake uncovered for about 30 minutes at 400°F, and then broil for a few minutes to brown the cheese.
Parmesan Cheese: Room Temperature Storage Risks
You may want to see also
Explore related products
To bread or not to bread
Let's start with the breading. The classic way to prepare eggplant Parmesan involves coating eggplant slices in a breading of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs before frying or baking. This method creates a crispy, crunchy texture that many people love. The breading also helps to absorb some of the moisture from the eggplant, preventing the dish from becoming soggy. However, it can be a time-consuming process and may result in a heavier, greasier dish.
On the other hand, going breadless has its perks. By skipping the breading, the eggplant's flavour can truly shine through. This method results in a lighter, gluten-free dish that is healthier and less complicated to prepare. Without the breading, the focus is on the eggplant itself, allowing its unique taste and texture to take centre stage. This approach is often used in Italian-style eggplant Parmesan, creating a more authentic and delicate dish.
So, which method is superior? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you're looking for a traditional, crispy texture and don't mind the extra preparation time, breading may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter, gluten-free option that highlights the flavour of the eggplant, then skipping the breading could be the better choice.
In the end, eggplant Parmesan is a versatile dish that can be customised to your tastes. Whether you choose to bread or not to bread, with a little experimentation, you can create a delicious version that suits your culinary preferences. So, don't be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and find the perfect eggplant Parmesan recipe for you!
Italians and Parmesan: A Cultural Love Affair
You may want to see also
Oven temperature and timing
For thinner eggplant slices, a temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit for around 20 minutes is often sufficient. This higher temperature ensures that the eggplant cooks through while maintaining a desirable level of crispness. It is important to keep an eye on the eggplant during this process, as the thin slices can go from crispy to burnt quite quickly.
For thicker eggplant slices or recipes that involve layering, a slightly lower temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit may be more appropriate. This allows the heat to penetrate the layers more effectively, ensuring that the eggplant cooks evenly throughout. The cooking time will depend on the number of layers and the thickness of the eggplant slices but typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes.
It is worth noting that some recipes call for a two-step baking process. This involves baking the coated eggplant slices for a shorter period, around 10 minutes, and then assembling the dish with the sauce and cheese and returning it to the oven for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. This approach helps to ensure that the eggplant is cooked properly and that the cheese is melted and browned to perfection.
Additionally, it is important to consider the type of dish used for baking. A broiler-safe baking dish is recommended, as finishing the dish under the broiler can add a desirable golden crust to the cheese. Whether using a baking sheet or a baking dish, it is generally advisable to brush the surface with oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Guide to Permits: Importing Parmesan Cheese
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Baking the slices in an oven is a good alternative to frying. This method is lighter and healthier than frying.
You can make eggplant parmesan without cheese by following the same recipe but simply skipping the cheese. You can also add extra marinara sauce to make up for the lack of cheese.
Gluten-free panko breadcrumbs are a good substitute for regular breadcrumbs. This substitute makes the dish more suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
To prevent sogginess, use a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the dish. Also, use cheese as a barrier between layers.
For a vegan option, some people have used almond milk instead of eggs.
