Eggplant Parmesan

Yield: Serves 4 Ingredients Eggplant IngredientAmount / WeightNoteeggplant2 mediumsliced into 1/2-inch roundskosher saltto tastefor drawing out moisturepanko breadcrumbs1 ½ cupseggs2 largebeatenunsalted butter4 tbspfor fryingolive oil2 tbspmixed with butter for fryingfresh mozzarella8 ozslicedgrated parmesan¼ cupoptional, for garnish Blistered Cherry Tomato Sauce IngredientAmount / WeightNotecherry tomatoes4 cupsshallot1 largefinely choppedgarlic cloves3 clovesthinly slicedolive oil2 tbspkosher saltto tasteblack pepperto tastefreshly crackedfresh basil1 small handfultorn, for finishing Steps To prepare the eggplant: Lay out eggplant slices and sprinkle both sides generously with kosher salt. Let sit for 30–45 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.Dip each slice in beaten egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil. Fry eggplant slices in batches, adding more butter/oil as needed, until golden brown and lightly crisped—about 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined tray. To make the blistered cherry tomato sauce: Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add cherry tomatoes and let them blister undisturbed for 2–3 minutes.Add shallot and garlic, stirring frequently until fragrant and tomatoes begin to burst—another 3–5 minutes.Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in torn basil and remove from heat. Keep warm.(Optional) For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend to desired consistency, either partially or fully. To assemble: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).Arrange the fried eggplant slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Top each with a slice of fresh mozzarella.Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.(Optional) broil for 1–2 minutes for light browning on the cheese. To serve: Spoon a generous bed of the cherry tomato sauce onto each plate.Place the eggplant slices directly over the sauce.Garnish with grated parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately.