birthday dinner, part 1

eggplant parmesan "steph style"

I won't lie to you. this is basically fried eggplant with tomato sauce. but it's SO GOOD.

1 eggplant
flour
egg
breadcrumbs
parmesan cheese [grated or shredded, doesn't matter]
oil for frying

1. slice eggplant. I usually go with about 1/4 inch [actually, I have no idea. I'm really bad at measuring inches. just go thinner rather than thicker].
2. put flour in a bowl. season with salt and pepper.
3. beat egg with a little water to thin it out.
4. mix breadcrumbs and some cheese together. don't ask me how much. use enough that you won't run out mid-eggplant. [I'm so helpful, right?]
5. heat oil over medium heat.
6. dip individual slices into flour. shake off. dip in egg and then in breadcrumbs. pack it down so the breadcrumbs stay in place.
7. fry on both sides until golden brown. drain on paper towels.

bread all slices before frying the first. they go kind of quick, and I'd hate for you to waste any because they're burned. although in my house those just get a little extra sauce...

2 cans tomato sauce [the small ones. I'm not sure what size they are]
1 tsp olive oil
1/4 tsp red pepper flake
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
fresh basil, torn [or dried...it works too. just use a lot. dried herbs are pretty strong]
salt and pepper

1. heat oil over low heat.
2. add red pepper flakes.
3. add tomato sauce.
4. stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper.
5. add basil at the very end.

putting this together isn't rocket science. when the eggplant is done, add the basil and stir. then layer eggplant, sauce and repeat on your plate. feel free to add cheese to this meal. it only makes it better. shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top makes it look so fancy!