CEDAR-PLANKED EGGPLANT PARMIGIANA

from Big Green Egg

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 medium or 2 small eggplants (about 12 ounces in all – you’ll need 12 slices)

  • Extra virgin olive oil for brushing and drizzling

  • Coarse salt (sea or kosher) and freshly ground black pepper

  • Dried oregano flakes, preferably Italian

  • Vegetable oil for oiling the cooking grid

  • 12 ounces fresh burrata, sliced (cream reserved), or mozzarella

  • 2 cups of your favorite chunky tomato sauce

  • ½ cup freshly and finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

  • 4 basil leaves, thinly slivered (optional)

  • ½ cup dried plain breadcrumbs, preferably homemade, or panko (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Equipment

  • 2 Cedar Grilling Planks

Method

  • Set the EGG for direct grilling without a convEGGtor at 400°F/204°C. Char the cedar planks on one side, about 2 minutes – long enough for them to darken and smoke, but not so long they catch fire. Set aside and let cool on a heatproof surface.

  • Meanwhile, cut the eggplant crosswise into ¼-inch-thick slices. Lightly brush each on both sides with olive oil and season on both sides with salt, pepper, and oregano.

  • Brush or scrape the cooking grid clean and oil it well. Arrange the eggplant slices on the grid. Grill until well browned on both sides and soft in the center, 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning with tongs. Alternatively, you can grill the eggplant on a preheated plancha. Transfer the eggplant slices to a rimmed sheet pan and let cool.

  • Assemble the parmigianas: Place a slice of eggplant on each plank (2 slices if using long planks). Top each slice with a slice of burrata (spoon on some of the cream as well), followed by a generous dollop of tomato sauce. Sprinkle with Parmigiano-Reggiano and a tuft of slivered basil (if using). Build the second layer of eggplant, burrata, tomato sauce, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and basil. Crown with a slice of eggplant. If you like a crisp top, sprinkle the top eggplant slice with breadcrumbs and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. The eggplant parmigianas can be assembled and refrigerated several hours ahead of time and grilled at the last minute.

  • Add the convEGGtor to set the EGG for indirect cooking.  Return the parmigianas on their planks to the grid. Cook until the tomato sauce is bubbling, the cheese is melted, and the tops are browned, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve the parmigianas on their planks.