Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLazy BettyCarmelized Eggplant Recipe

Carmelized Eggplant Recipe

Inspired by Lazy Betty
Time1h
Serves4

Preserved Tomato Coulis, Calabrian Chili

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Ingredients

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Eggplant

Preserved Tomato Coulis

Calabrian Chili

Method

Caramelizing Eggplant

  1. 1

    Prepare the Eggplant

    Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

  2. 2

    Rinse and Dry

    After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat them dry with a paper towel.

  3. 3

    Cook the Eggplant

    Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the eggplant slices in a single layer and cook until caramelized on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Season with black pepper to taste.

Making Preserved Tomato Coulis

  1. 4

    Sauté Aromatics

    In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

  2. 5

    Add Tomatoes

    Add the canned whole tomatoes (with juice), salt, and sugar to the saucepan. Crush the tomatoes with a spoon and bring to a gentle simmer.

  3. 6

    Simmer the Sauce

    Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Add the basil leaves during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

  4. 7

    Blend the Coulis

    Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Blend the sauce until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Preparing Calabrian Chili Oil

  1. 8

    Combine Ingredients

    In a small bowl, mix together the Calabrian chili paste and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until well combined.

Plating

  1. 9

    Serve

    On a large serving plate, layer the caramelized eggplant and drizzle the preserved tomato coulis over the top. Finish with a swirl of Calabrian chili oil for added flavor.

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