Eggplant Skillet Deluxe

Eggplant Skillet Deluxe Recipe - A Flavorful American Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Eggplant Skillet Deluxe is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of eggplant, clams, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

History

The origins of Eggplant Skillet Deluxe are not clear, but it is likely a variation of traditional eggplant casserole recipes that have been passed down through generations. This recipe adds a unique twist by incorporating clams for added flavor and protein.

Ingredients

1 medium eggplant (about 1 lb (454 g)), peeled and cut into 0.75 inch cubes
1 cup sliced green onions
2 tbsp butter or margarine
3 cup cooked rice
1 6-0.5 oz (14 g) can minced clams with liquid, undrained
0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp poultry seasoning
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
Grated parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

How to prepare

Simmer the eggplant in 0.5 inches of salted water until tender (about 6 to 10 minutes); drain.
Cook the onions in butter until soft but not brown.
Add the cooked eggplant, onions, butter, rice, clams, cheese, salt, poultry seasoning, and pepper; heat thoroughly, stirring occasionally.
Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Variations

Substitute the clams with cooked shrimp or chicken for a different flavor.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
Use different herbs and spices, such as basil or oregano, to customize the flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel the eggplant before cutting it into cubes to ensure a smooth texture in the final dish.

- Cooking the eggplant in salted water helps to remove any bitterness and enhances the flavor.

- Stir the ingredients occasionally while heating to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Eggplant Skillet Deluxe hot with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the eggplant in salted water helps to soften it before adding it to the skillet.

- Cooking the onions in butter adds a rich flavor to the dish.

- Heating the ingredients thoroughly ensures that all flavors are well combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier option.

- Replace the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.

- Swap the rice for quinoa or couscous for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Eggplant Skillet Deluxe can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Eggplant Skillet Deluxe with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color. Serve it in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Eggplant Skillet Deluxe with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Eggplant Skillet Deluxe in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Eggplant Skillet Deluxe contains approximately 280 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Eggplant Skillet Deluxe contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Eggplant Skillet Deluxe contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Eggplant Skillet Deluxe contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Eggplant is a good source of vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese. Clams are rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and shellfish (clams), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Eggplant Skillet Deluxe is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Eggplant Skillet Deluxe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With a mix of eggplant, clams, rice, and Parmesan cheese, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly coffee and chat session. Margaret was known in our neighborhood for her incredible cooking skills, and I always looked forward to trying out new recipes she had discovered.

On that particular day, Margaret greeted me with a twinkle in her eye and a mysterious glint in her smile. "I have something special for you today, dear friend," she said, leading me into her cozy kitchen. As I sat at the table, she bustled about, gathering ingredients and utensils with a sense of excitement that was contagious.

Finally, Margaret placed a steaming skillet in front of me, filled with a colorful array of vegetables and savory aromas that made my mouth water. "This, my dear, is my famous Eggplant Skillet Deluxe," she announced proudly. "I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother before her. It's been passed down through generations in my family, and now I'm passing it on to you."

I couldn't wait to dig in, and with my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The tender eggplant, the caramelized onions, the burst of fresh herbs and spices—it was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds and warmed my heart. I savored every bite, savoring the love and tradition that had gone into creating this dish.

After finishing my meal, I begged Margaret to share the recipe with me. She chuckled and agreed, handing me a weathered old recipe card that had been lovingly stained and worn from years of use. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I felt a sense of gratitude and connection to my friend and her family history.

Over the next few weeks, I practiced making Eggplant Skillet Deluxe in my own kitchen, tweaking and adjusting the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. Each time I made it, I thought of Margaret and her grandmother and the legacy of culinary excellence they had passed down to me.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect my version of Eggplant Skillet Deluxe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. I shared it with friends and family, who raved about its deliciousness and begged for the recipe. I even entered it in a local cooking competition and won first prize, much to my delight and pride.

Now, whenever I make Eggplant Skillet Deluxe, I think of Margaret and her grandmother and the bond we shared over a simple but unforgettable dish. It reminds me of the power of food to bring people together, to nourish not just our bodies but our hearts and souls as well.

And so, as I sit at my kitchen table, preparing to make another batch of Eggplant Skillet Deluxe, I do so with a sense of gratitude and joy. For this recipe is not just a collection of ingredients and instructions—it is a living testament to the love and tradition that has enriched my life in ways I never could have imagined. And for that, I am forever grateful.