Eggplant with mushrooms - Typical Neapolitan recipe

When it comes to traditional Neapolitan cuisine, one dish that stands out is “Melanzane al Funghetto,” or Eggplant with Mushrooms. This classic recipe showcases the rich flavors of Mediterranean vegetables and is a beloved favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Eggplant with mushrooms is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make main course that combines two versatile ingredients. It perfectly represents the simplicity and authenticity of Neapolitan cuisine.

To begin, you will need the following ingredients for this Neapolitan recipe:

– 2 medium-sized eggplants
– 250g of mushrooms (such as button or cremini)
– 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
– A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have gathered your ingredients, you can start preparing this delicious Neapolitan dish. Start by washing the eggplants and cutting them into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Sprinkle some salt over the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out any excess bitterness.

Meanwhile, clean the mushrooms and slice them. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, then add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook the mushrooms for about 5-6 minutes, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.

While the mushrooms are cooking, rinse the eggplant slices to remove the excess salt. Pat them dry with a paper towel, and in a separate pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant slices and cook them until they become tender and golden on both sides. This should take around 5-7 minutes per side.

Once the eggplants are cooked, transfer them to the same pan with the mushrooms, and mix them gently. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Finally, sprinkle the finely chopped parsley on top of the dish for added freshness and aroma.

Melanzane al Funghetto is typically served as a main course, accompanied by a side of crusty Italian bread or cooked pasta. It can also be enjoyed as a side dish alongside grilled fish or meat. The earthy flavors of the eggplant and mushrooms complement each other perfectly, creating a harmonious blend.

Apart from its delicious taste, Eggplant with Mushrooms also offers various health benefits. Eggplants are a rich source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet. Mushrooms, on the other hand, are low in calories and packed with nutrients such as B vitamins, antioxidants, and potassium.

In summary, Eggplant with Mushrooms is a typical Neapolitan recipe that exemplifies the simplicity and flavor complexity of traditional Neapolitan cuisine. This dish is easy to prepare and combines two ingredients – eggplant and mushrooms – to create a hearty and nutritious meal. If you are looking to experience the essence of Neapolitan culinary tradition, give this classic recipe a try and indulge in a Mediterranean delight.