Eggplant Loaf

Eggplant Loaf Recipe - A Delicious Vegetarian French Dish

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Eggplant loaf is a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. This recipe combines the rich and meaty texture of eggplant with flavorful herbs and spices to create a dish that is sure to impress.

History

The origins of eggplant loaf are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Mediterranean cuisine. Eggplant has long been a staple in Mediterranean cooking, and this dish is a creative way to showcase the versatility of this vegetable.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of peeled eggplant
salt
6 tbsp of olive oil
pepper
3 cloves of crushed garlic
3 chopped onions
herbes de provence
4 eggs
0.25 cup of sour cream

How to prepare

Cut the eggplant into 1.5-inch cubes, sprinkle with salt, and let it drain in a colander for 20 minutes.
Pat the eggplant dry with a paper towel.
Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet and sauté the eggplant gently, stirring constantly.
Raise the heat and cook for another 5 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper, then add garlic, onions, and herbes de Provence.
Mix well and simmer, uncovered, over low heat for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
Butter a loaf pan or mold.
Beat the eggs with sour cream.
When the eggplant is cooked, mash it with a fork.
Add the egg mixture and pour it into the prepared pan.
Place the pan in a larger pan with at least 1 inch of water (bain Marie).
Cook for 30 minutes.
Allow it to cool.
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Top the loaf with breadcrumbs or cheese before baking for a crispy topping.
Mix in cooked lentils or quinoa for added protein and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to properly drain the eggplant before cooking to remove excess moisture and prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Sautéing the eggplant before baking helps to enhance its flavor and texture.

- Using a bain Marie (water bath) while baking helps to ensure that the loaf cooks evenly and stays moist.

Serving Suggestions

Eggplant loaf can be served hot or cold, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the eggplant before baking helps to enhance its flavor and texture.

- Using a bain Marie (water bath) while baking helps to ensure that the loaf cooks evenly and stays moist.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt or coconut milk as a substitute for sour cream.

- Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Eggplant loaf can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the eggplant loaf with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color and flavor. Serve on a platter with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Pairing Recommendations

Eggplant loaf pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also goes well with a side of couscous or quinoa.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of eggplant loaf contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of eggplant loaf contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of eggplant loaf contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of eggplant loaf contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Eggplant is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and dairy (sour cream), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Eggplant loaf is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is a great option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet.

Summary

Eggplant loaf is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor and hearty texture, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Eggplant Loaf. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, and my family had immigrated to America from Italy. We settled in a small town where we were the only Italian family, and I was desperate to hold onto my Italian roots and traditions.

One day, while exploring the local library, I stumbled upon a dusty old cookbook filled with traditional Italian recipes. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Eggplant Loaf. I had never heard of such a dish before, but the combination of ingredients intrigued me. I knew I had to try making it.

I took the cookbook home and immediately set to work in the kitchen. I carefully followed the instructions, slicing the eggplant, sautéing the onions and garlic, and mixing in the breadcrumbs and cheese. The kitchen filled with the rich aroma of tomatoes and herbs as the loaf baked in the oven.

When it was finally done, I took a bite of the Eggplant Loaf and was instantly transported back to Italy. The flavors were so familiar, so comforting, that I knew this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I continued to make the Eggplant Loaf, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its deliciousness. It became a dish that I was known for, a dish that brought people together around the dinner table.

But the true magic of the Eggplant Loaf was not just in its taste, but in the memories it held for me. Each time I made it, I was reminded of that first time I discovered the recipe, of my determination to keep my Italian heritage alive in a new country. It became a symbol of my identity, a link to my past.

As the years went by, I learned more and more recipes from various places and people. Some were handed down through generations of my family, while others were shared with me by friends and neighbors. Each one had its own story, its own significance in my culinary journey.

But the Eggplant Loaf remained special to me. It was the recipe that started it all, the recipe that sparked my love of cooking and my desire to preserve the traditions of my homeland. It was a reminder of who I was, where I came from, and the power of food to connect us to our roots.

And so, even now, as I sit in my kitchen surrounded by the scent of simmering tomatoes and herbs, I am grateful for that dusty old cookbook that led me to the recipe for Eggplant Loaf. It may seem like just a simple dish, but to me, it is so much more. It is a taste of home, a taste of tradition, a taste of the love and passion that I pour into every meal I make. And for that, I am truly thankful.