Ingredients
Method
- Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch rounds and arrange them on a large tray. Sprinkle both sides with salt and let them sit for 20 minutes to sweat out excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In another bowl, mix almond flour, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika.
- Dip each eggplant slice into the whisked eggs, then coat it in the almond flour mixture, ensuring both sides are covered.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated eggplant slices in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Place the fried slices on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the fried eggplant slices over the sauce.
- Spread another 1 cup of marinara sauce over the eggplant slices, then sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Add another layer of eggplant slices, followed by the remaining marinara sauce and the rest of the mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
You can substitute almond flour with coconut flour for a slightly different texture. Ensure the marinara sauce is halal-certified if required.
