Paleo Eggplant Parmesan
Try this Paleo Eggplant Parmesan recipe
Try this Paleo Eggplant Parmesan recipe
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 3 medium thin eggplants (i used some japanese ones) sliced thin vertically (so you end up with long, thin slices)
- 2 tbs flax meal whisked into 6 tbs water (or substitute beaten and mixed with 2 tbs water)
- 1-1/2 cups almond meal
- 1-1/2 tsp dried oregano
- sea salt and black pepper
- 1 28- oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1-1/2 tbs coconut sugar
- 4 oz thinly sliced vegan mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese shreds
- Carbohydrate 0.33978 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.10362 g
- Fiber 0.163200004577637 g
- Protein 0.07206 g
- Saturated Fat 0.01956 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (20g)
- Sodium 26.0186666666667 mg
- Sugar 0.176579995422363 g
- Trans Fat 0.01734 g
- Calories 2 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Place the egg and water mixture into a shallow pie plate or dish.
- In a second shallow dish, combine the almond meal with the oregano and some salt and black pepper.
- Dip each eggplant slice in the egg mixture and flip to coat well.
- Then dredge each piece in the almond flour mixture, again turning to coat well.
- Place the dredged slices on parchment-lined baking sheets in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Place the trays in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- Then flip the slices over and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the slices start to get crisp and golden brown. (Note: all ovens are different, so check your slices occasionally to make sure they don't cook too quickly.)
- Meanwhile make the sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the tomatoes, red pepper flakes, coconut sugar, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- When the eggplant is done, remove it from the oven, and reduce the temperature to 350°F.
- Ladle some sauce into the bottom of a 13x11 baking dish (or a dish close to that size).
- Arrange eggplant slices over the sauce, putting them close to each other but not overlapping much.
- Spread some sauce over the eggplant.
- Layer some mozzarella over the sauce.
- Repeat with a second layer (and a third layer if you have extra eggplant).
- After you add your final layer of eggplant, finish with sauce, then mozzarella, and then sprinkle on the Parmesan.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Enjoy!
My Paleo Eggplant Parmesan Journey: A Busy Mom's Delicious Adventure
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling deadlines at the office, school runs, and keeping the family fed, finding time for anything else feels like a luxury. But amidst the chaos, I’ve discovered something incredibly rewarding: the joy of creating delicious, healthy meals for my family. And this Paleo Eggplant Parmesan recipe has become a true lifesaver.
I’ve always loved eggplant parmesan, that classic Italian comfort food. But let's be honest, the traditional version is often loaded with unhealthy ingredients. So I set out on a mission to create a healthier, paleo-friendly version that still delivers that rich, satisfying flavour. I experimented with different techniques, substituting traditional ingredients with healthier alternatives, and I must admit, there were a few kitchen mishaps along the way. But the end result? Absolutely worth the effort.
What makes this recipe particularly special is its adaptability. One day, I might use Japanese eggplants, which have a slightly milder taste. Other times, I’ll use regular eggplants, adjusting the cooking time as needed. The beauty of cooking is the freedom to adapt and make it your own. I’ve even experimented with adding different herbs and spices to the sauce, such as basil or thyme, depending on what's fresh in my garden.
The process itself isn't overly complicated. While it involves several steps, each one is fairly straightforward. The satisfaction of creating this dish from scratch is immense. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a testament to my ability to nourish my family with delicious, wholesome food, even amidst the demands of a busy schedule. And the best part? My kids absolutely love it! It’s become a family favorite.
This recipe is not just about food; it’s about the little moments of joy amidst the chaos. It's about finding time to connect with my family over a meal that's both delicious and healthy. It's a symbol of my commitment to providing my family with nourishing food, even when time is tight. This is more than a recipe; it's a slice of my life, a testament to the power of healthy eating in a busy world.
Beyond the Recipe: A Reflection on Healthy Eating Habits
Creating this Paleo Eggplant Parmesan has been more than just a cooking experience; it's also been a journey of self-discovery. It has challenged me to think more consciously about the ingredients I use, and to seek out healthier alternatives. I’ve learned the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the impact that small changes can have on the overall health of my family. This recipe has been a stepping stone toward embracing a healthier lifestyle, not only for myself but also for my children.
The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its deliciousness but also in its flexibility. It’s easily adaptable to dietary restrictions and personal preferences. For example, the type of cheese can be adjusted based on your needs, and experimenting with different herbs and spices allows for endless variations. This adaptability makes it a versatile dish that can easily be incorporated into any meal plan. This recipe has also taught me the importance of planning and preparation. By prepping ingredients in advance, the cooking process becomes significantly easier and more efficient.
Creating this meal isn't just about following a set of instructions; it's about nurturing my family and myself with wholesome, delicious food. It’s about embracing a healthier lifestyle, one delicious meal at a time. It’s about finding joy in the everyday rituals of cooking, and the satisfaction of sharing a meal with loved ones.
More Than Just a Recipe: A Symbol of Self-Care
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, self-care often takes a backseat. However, preparing a meal like this Paleo Eggplant Parmesan is a form of self-care. It’s a way to slow down, connect with my inner self, and focus on creating something nourishing and delicious. It’s a mindful practice that allows me to escape the pressures of daily life, even if only for a short while. This isn't just about the final product; it's about the journey of creating something wholesome and delicious, a process that brings me a sense of accomplishment and peace.
The aroma of simmering tomatoes and baking eggplant fills my kitchen, creating a comforting ambiance that soothes my soul. The act of chopping vegetables, mixing ingredients, and carefully layering the dish is a form of meditation, a time to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the simple pleasures of cooking. It's a practice that allows me to de-stress and find a sense of calm amidst the chaos of everyday life.
This recipe is a testament to my commitment to healthy living and family well-being. It's a symbol of my dedication to creating a harmonious balance between work, family, and self-care. And most importantly, it's a reminder that even amidst the busiest of schedules, taking the time to prepare a wholesome and delicious meal can be a transformative act of self-love.
