Mark Bittmans Eggplant Parmesan

1. 1

   Put 1/8 inch of oil in your largest skillet (the bigger the skillet, the faster you can get through sauteing the eggplant) and turn the heat to medium.

2. 2

   Start trimming and slicing eggplant: 1/2-inch slices, or maybe 3/8-inch, but not as thin as 1/4 inch.

3. 3

   When the oil shimmers, add the eggplant; you can crowd them as long as they don't overlap.

4. 4

   Season with salt and pepper and cook, turning as necessary, until nicely tender and browned on both sides; drain on paper towels.

5. 5

   Add more oil when necessary.

6. 6

   Cook the onion in the remaining oil; when it's tender, add the tomatoes and some salt and pepper and cook at a lively simmer until saucy, 10 or 15 minutes.

7. 7

   Heat the oven to 400.

8. 8

   Eyeball your eggplant and your baking dishes and pick a nice dish that will work.

9. 9

   I like a big oval gratin dish for this.

10. 10

    Add a layer of eggplant, then tomato sauce, then cheese, then eggplant, tomato sauce, cheese.

11. 11

    That will probably do, but you can make more layers if you like.

12. 12

    Bake until the cheese is melted and the whole thing is bubbly, about 15 minutes.

13. 13

    Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot or at room temperature.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.