Are you tired of the same old spaghetti sauce recipe? Why not try something new and exciting by incorporating eggplant into your sauce?
Eggplant adds a rich and velvety texture to the sauce, making it a perfect option for vegetarians or anyone looking to add some variety to their pasta dishes. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make spaghetti sauce with eggplant that will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Eggplant
First, start by peeling the skin off the eggplant. This is optional but recommended as it helps remove any bitterness from the vegetable. Cut the eggplant into small cubes or slices.
Step 2: Sauteing the Onion and Garlic
In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Adding Eggplant to the Sauce
Add the prepared eggplant pieces to the pan with onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the eggplant with the oil and aromatics. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the eggplant starts to soften.
Step 4: Adding the Tomato Sauce
Next, add the can of crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Seasoning Your Sauce
Now it’s time to season your sauce. Add dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. Stir well and let the sauce cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 6: Blending or Leaving Chunky
If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a blender to puree until smooth. If you like a chunkier texture, skip this step.
Step 7: Serving Your Spaghetti Sauce with Eggplant
Your spaghetti sauce with eggplant is now ready! Serve it over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, and garnish with fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy a hearty and delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Note: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients such as red bell peppers or mushrooms to add even more depth of flavor.
So go ahead and give this spaghetti sauce recipe with eggplant a try! It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while savoring a classic Italian dish. Bon appétit!