Eggplant rolls with cheese

Delicious Eggplant Rolls with Cheese: A Traditional Recipe with a Modern Twist

I present to you a recipe that will bring an explosion of flavors and textures to your table: Eggplant Rolls with Cheese. These delights are perfect to be served as an appetizer, but they are just as tasty as a main dish. Eggplant rolls are an excellent choice for festive meals or a family dinner, being a vegetarian option that you can easily adapt.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

A Brief History

Eggplants, also known as "purple gold," have a rich and fascinating history. Although their origins are sometimes disputed, it is certain that these vegetables have become an integral part of many culinary cultures. Eggplant rolls are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into delicious dishes, full of flavor. This recipe is inspired by culinary traditions from a Transylvanian village, but with small modern adjustments to highlight its taste.

Ingredients

- 1 large, fresh eggplant
- Olive oil for greasing the pan
- 3 tablespoons of tomato juice, freshly squeezed or canned
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (for mixing with the tomato juice)
- 200 g of grated cheese (you can use smoked cheese for an intense flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks to secure the rolls

Step by Step: Preparing the Eggplant Rolls

1. Preparing the eggplant: Wash the eggplant well under cold running water to remove impurities. Cut the eggplant into thin slices lengthwise, about 5 mm thick. This will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.

2. Salting the eggplant: Place the eggplant slices in a bowl and sprinkle with a little salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to remove excess water. This step is essential to prevent the rolls from being too wet and disintegrating during cooking.

3. Preparing the tomato mixture: In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of tomato juice with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. This will be used to grease the eggplant slices.

4. Frying the eggplant slices: Heat a little olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until they become slightly golden. Do not fry them too much, as they will also cook in the oven.

5. Rolling the rolls: Place the fried eggplant slices on a platter and grease each slice with the tomato mixture. Sprinkle a generous layer of grated cheese over each slice. Carefully roll up the slices and secure them with a toothpick to prevent them from unrolling.

6. Preparing for the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the rolls in an ovenproof dish, cover them with the remaining tomato juice, and sprinkle a few thin slices of cheese on top.

7. Baking: Bake the rolls for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes golden and nicely browned.

8. Serving: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them ideal for festive meals or quick snacks.

Useful Tips

- Recipe variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese: mozzarella for a more elastic texture or feta cheese for a saltier flavor. You can also add herbs like basil or oregano between layers of cheese for extra aroma.

- Delicious pairings: These eggplant rolls pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a tomato and onion salad with olives. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement this dish.

- Storage: If you have leftovers, you can keep them in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to regain their crispy texture.

Nutritional Benefits

Eggplants are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, being rich in fiber, making them ideal for a healthy diet. Combining them with cheese gives you a nutritious dish, full of protein and calcium. Moreover, this dish is relatively low in calories, having about 200-250 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and cheese used.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen eggplants? Although fresh eggplants are preferred, you can use frozen eggplants. Make sure to completely thaw and drain them well before use.
- How can I make this recipe spicier? Add a little chopped chili pepper to the tomato mixture or sprinkle chili flakes over the rolls before putting them in the oven.

I hope this recipe for eggplant rolls with cheese quickly becomes a favorite in your kitchen! Cooking is an art and a pleasure, and every dish you create is an opportunity to explore new flavors and combinations. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent around the table with your loved ones!