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Fennel-Seed Roasted Eggplant with Cheese

This dish involves roasting eggplant slices seasoned with fennel seeds until tender and caramelized, then topping them with melted cheese and a crispy crust. The final appearance features golden-brown edges, a creamy interior, and a bubbling cheese top, offering a blend of smoky, aromatic flavors and varying textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Fusion
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium eggplants sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds lightly crushed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese preferably mozzarella or a cheese that melts well
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooking brush
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Arrange the sliced eggplant rounds on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil, ensuring even coverage.
  3. Sprinkle the crushed fennel seeds evenly over the eggplant slices; they should adhere to the oil, releasing their aromatic scent.
  4. Season each slice with a pinch of salt and black pepper according to your taste, enhancing their natural flavors.
  5. Place the tray in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplant edges are golden brown and the flesh feels tender when pierced with a fork.
  6. Remove the eggplant from the oven and turn on the broiler. Distribute shredded cheese evenly over each slice, covering the surface generously.
  7. Return the tray to the oven and broil for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the eggplant rest for a minute so the cheese sets slightly. Serve hot, garnished with additional fennel seeds if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a drizzle of honey or sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.