Eggplant dish

Eggplant dish is one of the most beloved autumn recipes, and its rich flavors and delicious texture make it a favorite in many households. This recipe for sautéed eggplant with onions and tomato sauce is simple yet full of flavor, perfect to be served as a main dish or as a side. Let's venture into preparing this delicious dish, step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 3 large eggplants
- 5 medium onions
- 150 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil, as preferred)
- 100 ml tomato juice
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 5-6 cloves of garlic

History of the eggplant dish:
Eggplants have a rich history, having been cultivated for thousands of years. These vegetables are not only delicious but also very nutritious. Combined with onions and garlic, they create a dish that is not only tasty but also healthy. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, becoming a symbol of the autumn season when eggplants are in full harvest.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the eggplant:
Start by washing the eggplants well under cold running water. Then, cut them lengthwise into strips, and each half into rounds. This cutting method allows the eggplant to cook evenly and absorb flavors.

2. Baking the eggplant:
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the eggplant rounds in a baking tray and sprinkle a little salt and olive oil over them. Mix well to ensure all slices are coated. Place the tray in the oven and let the eggplants roast for about 20-25 minutes until they become golden and soft.

3. Preparing the onions:
Meanwhile, peel the onions, wash them, and slice them thinly (julienne). In a pot, add water and a teaspoon of salt and bring the water to a boil. Add the sliced onions and let them boil for 10-15 minutes until soft. After boiling, drain the onions in a colander.

4. Sautéing the onions:
In a large pot, add a little oil (about 2-3 tablespoons) and heat it over medium heat. Add the boiled onions and let them sauté for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Adding the eggplant:
Once the onions are sautéed, add the baked eggplants and mix well. Let them sauté together for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

6. Simmering with tomato sauce:
Add hot water to the pot, enough to cover the eggplants, and add the tomato juice. Mix and let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes until all ingredients are well integrated and the flavors have developed.

7. Finalizing the dish:
In the last minutes of cooking, peel and finely chop the garlic and parsley. Add them to the pot along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Serving:
The eggplant dish is delicious served warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or a portion of rice. You can garnish it with chopped fresh parsley for a more attractive appearance and added aroma. This recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or refreshing lemonade.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a spicy note, you can include chili flakes in the tomato sauce.
- Substitute tomato juice with homemade tomato sauce for an even richer taste.
- You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to diversify the dish.

Nutritional information:
This eggplant dish is rich in fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and antioxidants. It is low in calories, with approximately 180 kcal per serving, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen eggplants? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
- Can I add meat to this recipe? Absolutely! Chicken or beef can be added to turn this dish into a rich main course.
- How can I store the eggplant dish? You can store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

In conclusion, this eggplant dish can quickly become your favorite autumn recipe due to its rich taste and simple preparation method. By experimenting with various ingredients and flavors, you will discover unique variations that will delight your family's taste buds. Enjoy your meal!