MARIO BATALI EGGPLANT PARMIGIANA

Steps:

• Preheat 450 F. Oil a baking sheet. Slice each eggplant into 6 pieces about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. Lightly season each disk with salt and pepper and place on the oiled sheet. Bake until turning deep brown on top, about 12-15 minutes. Remove from oven. Place on a plate to cool. Lower oven temperature to 350 F. In 8 by 12-inch brownie pan, place the 4 largest eggplant slices evenly spaced apart. Spread 1/4 cup of tomato sauce on each and sprinkle with a teaspoon of basil. Place one slice of mozzarella over each and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon grated Parmigiano. Place the smaller slices of eggplant over each of the disks and repeat until all the ingredients are used. Sprinkle the toasted bread crumbs over the top and bake uncovered until the cheese is melted and the tops turn light brown, about 20 minutes. Serve immediately. Tomato Sauce: In a 3-quart saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until soft and light golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add the thyme and carrot and cook 5 minutes more, until the carrot is quite soft. Add the tomatoes and juice and bring to a boil, stirring often. Lower the heat and simmer for 30 minutes until as thick as hot cereal. Season with salt and serve. This sauce holds 1 week in the refrigerator or up to 6 months in the freezer. Yield: 4 cups Recipe courtesy Mario Batali