Discover The Secret Ingredient That Transforms Eggplant Parmesan: Does Ricotta Cheese Hold The Key?

Eggplant Parmesan is a beloved Italian dish that has become a staple in many cuisines around the world. It’s a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. However, one of the most common questions about this dish is whether or not it includes ricotta cheese. In this blog post, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide you with all the information you need to make the perfect eggplant parmesan.

What is Eggplant Parmesan?

Eggplant Parmesan is a dish made with slices of eggplant that are breaded, fried, and then layered with tomato sauce and cheese. The dish is typically topped with grated Parmesan cheese and baked in the oven until hot and bubbly.

Does Ricotta Cheese Go in Eggplant Parmesan?

The answer to this question is yes, ricotta cheese is a traditional ingredient in eggplant parmesan. Ricotta cheese adds a creamy and slightly tangy flavor to the dish, and it helps to hold the layers of eggplant and sauce together.

How to Make Eggplant Parmesan with Ricotta Cheese

To make eggplant parmesan with ricotta cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. Dredge the eggplant slices in the flour, then the eggs, and then the bread crumbs.
3. Fry the eggplant slices in hot oil until golden brown on both sides.
4. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread a layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with a layer of eggplant slices.
7. Repeat layers until all of the ingredients have been used.
8. Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Variations on Eggplant Parmesan with Ricotta Cheese

There are many different ways to make eggplant parmesan with ricotta cheese. Some popular variations include:

• Adding mozzarella cheese to the dish
• Using a different type of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar
• Adding other vegetables to the dish, such as zucchini or bell peppers
• Using a different type of sauce, such as a white sauce or a marinara sauce

Tips for Making the Best Eggplant Parmesan with Ricotta Cheese

Here are a few tips for making the best eggplant parmesan with ricotta cheese:

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
• Don’t overcook the eggplant. It should be tender but still firm.
• Use a flavorful tomato sauce.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese.
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together.

The Bottom Line

So, does ricotta cheese go in eggplant parmesan? Yes, it does! Ricotta cheese is a traditional ingredient in this dish, and it adds a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that helps to hold the layers of eggplant and sauce together. If you’re looking for a delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, give eggplant parmesan with ricotta cheese a try.

Answers to Your Questions

What are some other ingredients that can be added to eggplant parmesan?

In addition to ricotta cheese, there are many other ingredients that can be added to eggplant parmesan. Some popular options include:

• Mozzarella cheese
• Provolone cheese
• Cheddar cheese
• Zucchini
• Bell peppers
• Onions
• Garlic
• Herbs, such as oregano and basil

Can eggplant parmesan be made ahead of time?

Yes, eggplant parmesan can be made ahead of time. To do so, simply assemble the dish and bake it for about 30 minutes. Then, let it cool completely and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the eggplant parmesan in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.

What should I serve with eggplant parmesan?

Eggplant parmesan is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include:

• Pasta
• Rice
• Bread
• Salad