Here's a recipe for Fried Aubergines with Tomato Sauce and Mint—a delicious and flavorful dish that combines crispy aubergines with a tangy tomato sauce and fresh mint.
Ingredients:
For the fried aubergines:
- 2 large aubergines (eggplants), sliced into rounds or strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works well)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the tomato sauce:
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the aubergines:
- Slice the aubergines into rounds or strips.
- Sprinkle with a bit of salt and let them sit for 20-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Bread the aubergines:
- Set up a breading station: place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs (mixed with Parmesan cheese, if using) in a third dish.
- Dip each aubergine slice into the flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Fry the aubergines:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the breaded aubergine slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Season with a little salt while still hot.
4. Make the tomato sauce:
- In a separate skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
5. Assemble the dish:
- Arrange the fried aubergine slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Spoon the tomato sauce over the aubergines.
6. Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh mint and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips:
- For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded aubergines at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
- You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce if you like a bit of heat.
This Fried Aubergines with Tomato Sauce and Mint is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect as a main or side. Enjoy!
