Eggplant ShelbourneMeris Resources2017-10-26T12:19:16-04:00

Eggplant Shelbourne

Presented by Pistachio Bar & Grille

INGREDIENTS

• 1 large eggplant, peeled
• Salt
• 1 T olive oil
• 1–1/2 lbs. fresh spinach, whole leaf or baby
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups basic tempura mix, dry (homemade or commercially prepared)
• Grapeseed or olive oil for frying
• 16 oz. marinara sauce
• 1/2 lb. shredded mozzarella

DIRECTIONS

Slice eggplant lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices. Lightly salt and place on paper towels to drain for about 1 hour. In a large pan, sauté onions and spinach in olive oil until wilted. Strain out excess water and return to pan. Add heavy cream to spinach mix, bring to a low boil and cook at medium heat until liquid is reduced by half.

Dredge eggplant in dry tempura mix. Working in batches, fry eggplant in a large sauté pan coated lightly with grapeseed or olive oil until both sides are golden. Add more oil as needed. Place eggplant on paper towels to drain.

Grease an 8-inch casserole dish, then cover the bottom of the dish with marinara sauce. Next, add an even layer of eggplant topped with a layer of the spinach mix. Continue to assemble with another layer of marinara sauce, eggplant, and spinach. Sprinkle mozzarella over the top. Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes until cheese is golden brown. Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.

(Serves 4)