Aubergine (Eggplant) in Tomato Sauce

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What is Aubergine (Eggplant) in Tomato Sauce?
Aubergine, commonly known as eggplant in North America, is a versatile and nutritious vegetable known for its deep purple skin and creamy flesh. Aubergine in tomato sauce is a savory dish that combines the earthy flavor of eggplant with the tangy and rich taste of tomato sauce. This dish is often enjoyed as a main course or a side dish and can be served with various accompaniments like rice, pasta, or bread.

History:
Aubergine in tomato sauce is a popular Mediterranean dish with origins in Southern Europe and the Middle East. The combination of eggplant and tomato has been a part of Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. The dish has evolved over time, with variations found in different countries, such as Italy’s Eggplant Parmesan (Melanzane alla Parmigiana) and Greece’s Moussaka.

Components:
The key components of Aubergine in Tomato Sauce are:

• Aubergine (Eggplant): Sliced or cubed.
• Tomato Sauce: Prepared with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and various herbs and spices.
• Olive Oil: Used for frying and sautéing the eggplant.
• Herbs and Spices: Common seasonings include basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Cheese (optional): Parmesan, mozzarella, or feta can be added for extra flavor.

Steps to Prepare Aubergine in Tomato Sauce:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dish:

1. Prep the Aubergine:

   • Wash and cut the eggplant into slices or cubes.
   • Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

   • Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic and onions until they become translucent.
   • Add peeled and chopped tomatoes (or canned tomato sauce).
   • Season with herbs like basil and oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Simmer until the sauce thickens.

3. Fry the Eggplant:

   • Rinse the salted eggplant and pat dry with paper towels.
   • Heat more olive oil in a separate pan and fry the eggplant until they’re golden brown.

4. Layer and Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a baking dish, layer the fried eggplant and the tomato sauce.
   • Add cheese on top if desired.
   • Bake for about 20-25 minutes until it’s bubbling and the cheese (if added) is melted and golden.

5. Serve:

   • Serve your Aubergine in Tomato Sauce hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

Time Needed to Prepare:
Preparation time typically takes around 30-40 minutes, and baking time varies but is usually about 20-25 minutes. So, in total, you can expect this dish to be ready in around 50-65 minutes.

Enjoy your homemade Aubergine in Tomato Sauce! 🍆🍅😋

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Aubergine (Eggplant) in Tomato Sauce:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate values for a 1-cup serving):

• Calories: 80
• Total Fat: 4 grams
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 500 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 10 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 3 grams
• Sugars: 5 grams
• Protein: 2 grams
• Vitamin K: 5% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 10% of the DV
• Folate: 5% of the DV
• Potassium: 6% of the DV

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: Aubergine in Tomato Sauce is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy choice for those looking to manage their weight.

2. High in Fiber: The dish is a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.

3. Vitamins and Minerals: Aubergines are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, folate, and potassium. These nutrients support various bodily functions, including bone health and immunity.

4. Heart Health: Eggplant is known to contain compounds like nasunin and anthocyanins, which may have beneficial effects on heart health and help reduce cholesterol levels.

5. Antioxidants: The tomatoes in the sauce provide antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been associated with a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases.

6. Low in Saturated Fat: The dish is low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.

7. Sodium Content: The sodium content can vary depending on how the dish is prepared. If you are concerned about sodium intake, you can reduce the amount of salt in the recipe to make it more heart-healthy.

It’s worth noting that the nutrition content can vary based on factors such as the portion size and specific ingredients used, so these values are approximate. Additionally, the overall healthiness of the dish can be influenced by the cooking methods, such as the amount of oil used for frying and the addition of cheese.