Eggplant Parmigiana with a Crunchy Hemp Seed Crust
What Started it all:
Hemp Seeds, Eggplant, spices (cumin, paprika, chili powder), food processor
In this dish, the sweetness of the eggplant is elevated by the subtle nutty flavor of hemp seeds, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1/4 cup hemp seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a food processor, combine hemp seeds, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly chopped.
- In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each eggplant slice into the hemp seed mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Place the coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the crust is golden brown.
- While the eggplant is baking, heat the tomato sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
- To assemble the Parmigiana, place a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange a layer of eggplant slices on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese over the eggplant. Repeat this process until all ingredients have been used, finishing with a layer of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake the Parmigiana for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
As I take my first bite, the crunch of the hemp seed crust gives way to the tender eggplant, and the rich flavors of the tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese come together in perfect harmony. It's a dish that reminds me of the simple joys of cooking, and the beauty of combining unexpected flavors and textures.