Foodie - Cheesy Eggplant Bakes

his is such a delicious dish loved by everyone, even those that don't like Brinjal/aubergine you will find this recipe really flavoursome.

The secret here is to sprinkle the pieces of brinjal with salt and allow to sit for 20-30min. Wash the salt off and dry in paper towel. By doing this the brinjal will not absorb too much oil and will be nice and crispy on the outside while soft and meaty on the inside.

For this recipe you will need:

2 Medium brinjal

4 TBS flour

2 Cups Bread Crumbs

Vegetable oil for frying

Grated Mature Cheddar Cheese

Directions:

Slice the brinjal into 1/2 inch rounds. Place the rounds in a colander and sprinkle them with salt (sea salt, kosher salt, any kind of salt will work). Make sure each eggplant round has a thin sprinkling of salt on it. Let the slices sit for 20-30 minutes till beads of liquid form on the surface. This process helps to remove any bitterness that may be present in the eggplant.

In a large plate mix flour and water into a loose runny paste, similar to pancake batter. Set aside.

Rinse the eggplant pieces thoroughly to remove the salt. Pat dry and spread out on a cutting board. Sprinkle the eggplant slices lightly with salt.

Dip the bringaj pieces firstin the flour batter and then in breadcrumbs

Fry until crispy

Place the grated cheese on top and grill gently until the cheese melts

Serve on a bun as a vegetarian burger option or with mash potato mushroom sauce and cucumber salad.

Why Eat Eggplan?

Eggplants, also known as aubergines, belong to the nightshade family of plants and are used in many different dishes around the world.

Althoughoften considered a vegetable, they're technically a fruit, as they grow from a flowering plant and contain seeds.

There are many varieties that range in size and color. And while eggplants with a deep purple skin are most common, they can be red, green or even black (1).

In addition to bringing a unique texture and mild flavor to recipes, eggplant brings a host of potential health benefits.

This article takes a deep look at 7 health benefits of eggplants.

Rich in Many Nutrients - Eggplants are anutrient-dense food, meaning they contain a good amount of vitamins, minerals and fiber in few calories.

High in Antioxidants - In addition to containing a variety of vitamins and minerals, eggplants boast a high number of antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that help protect the body from damage caused by harmful substances known as free radicals. Studies have shown that antioxidants could help prevent many types of chronic disease, such as heart disease and cancer. Eggplants are especially rich in anthocyanins, a type of pigment with antioxidant properties that's responsible for their vibrant color In particular, an anthocyanin in eggplants called nasunin is especially beneficial. In fact, multiple test-tube studies have confirmed that it's effective at protecting cells against damage from harmful free radicals. Eggplants are high in anthocyanins, a pigment with antioxidant properties that can protect against cellular damage.

May Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease - Some animal studies have found that eggplants may improve heart function and reduce LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, though human research is needed.

May Promote Blood Sugar Control - Eggplants are high in fiber and polyphenols, both of which may help reduce blood sugar levels.

Could Help With Weight Loss - Eggplant is high in fiber but low in calories, both of which can help promote weight loss. It can also be used in place of higher-calorie ingredients.

May Have Cancer-Fighting Benefits - Eggplants contain solasodine rhamnosyl glycosides, which test-tube studies indicate may aid in cancer treatment. Eating more fruits and vegetables may also protect against some types of cancer.

Very Easy to Add to Your Diet - Eggplant is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared and enjoyed in a variety of different ways.

Eggplant is a high-fiber, low-calorie food that is rich in nutrients and comes with many potential health benefits.

From reducing the risk of heart disease to helping with blood sugar control and weight loss, eggplants are a simple and delicious addition toany healthy diet.

They're also incredibly versatile and fit well into many dishes.