What To Know
- In this guide, we will discuss the different types of breading that can be used for eggplant parmesan, and we will provide you with our top picks for the best breading.
- The best way to slice eggplant for eggplant parmesan is to slice it into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- The best way to cook eggplant parmesan is to bake it in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Eggplant parmesan is a classic Italian dish that is both delicious and comforting. The key to a great eggplant parmesan is the breading. The breading should be crispy and flavorful, and it should adhere to the eggplant without falling off.
In this guide, we will discuss the different types of breading that can be used for eggplant parmesan, and we will provide you with our top picks for the best breading.
Types of Breading
There are three main types of breading that can be used for eggplant parmesan:
- Flour: Flour is the most basic type of breading. It is simple to use and it creates a light and crispy crust.
- Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are made from dried bread that has been ground into crumbs. They create a more substantial crust than flour, and they can be flavored with herbs and spices.
- Panko: Panko is a Japanese breadcrumb that is made from white bread. It is lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, and it creates a very crispy crust.
Our Top Picks for the Best Breading
After testing several different types of breading, we have come up with our top picks for the best breading for eggplant parmesan:
- Best Overall: Panko breadcrumbs
- Best for a Crispy Crust: Italian-style breadcrumbs
- Best for a Light and Fluffy Crust: Flour
- Best for a Flavorful Crust: Seasoned breadcrumbs
How to Choose the Right Breading
The best breading for eggplant parmesan will depend on your personal preferences. If you want a crispy crust, then you will want to use panko breadcrumbs or Italian-style breadcrumbs. If you want a light and fluffy crust, then you will want to use flour. If you want a flavorful crust, then you will want to use seasoned breadcrumbs.
How to Bread Eggplant
Once you have chosen your breading, you will need to bread the eggplant. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. Dredge the eggplant slices in flour.
3. Dip the eggplant slices in beaten egg.
4. Coat the eggplant slices in breadcrumbs.
5. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Tips for Perfect Eggplant Parmesan
Here are a few tips for making the perfect eggplant parmesan:
- Use fresh eggplant. Fresh eggplant will have a firmer texture and will not be as bitter as older eggplant.
- Slice the eggplant evenly. This will help the eggplant cook evenly.
- Dredge the eggplant slices in flour before dipping them in egg and breadcrumbs. This will help the breading adhere to the eggplant.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet. This will prevent the eggplant from cooking evenly.
- Bake the eggplant until it is golden brown and crispy. This will ensure that the eggplant is cooked through and that the breading is crispy.
Alternatives to Breading
If you do not want to use breading, there are a few alternatives that you can try:
- Polenta: Polenta is a cornmeal that can be used to create a crispy crust.
- Oatmeal: Oatmeal can be used to create a lighter and more delicate crust.
- Grits: Grits can be used to create a more substantial crust.
The Verdict
The best breading for eggplant parmesan is a matter of personal preference. However, our top picks for the best breading are panko breadcrumbs, Italian-style breadcrumbs, flour, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Experiment with different types of breading to find the one that you like best.
Popular Questions
Q: What is the best way to slice eggplant for eggplant parmesan?
A: The best way to slice eggplant for eggplant parmesan is to slice it into 1/2-inch thick slices. This will help the eggplant cook evenly.
Q: How do I prevent the eggplant from absorbing too much oil?
A: To prevent the eggplant from absorbing too much oil, you can salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes before cooking. This will draw out some of the moisture from the eggplant.
Q: What is the best way to cook eggplant parmesan?
A: The best way to cook eggplant parmesan is to bake it in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
