Cheeseless Eggplant Aubergine Gratin

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You can slice and salt the eggplant ahead, but the baking method significantly reduces the amount of oil they will absorb. This is a great first course, and goes well on the side of meat or fish. Courtesy claudine.

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Steps

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Preheat oven to 400-degrees.

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Trim and peel eggplants , cutting into thick slices , leaving you with about 8 slices.

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Pour first portion of olive oil onto large baking sheet , coating evenly.

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Press slices into oil and sprinkle with half the salt.

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Turn and repeat with remaining salt.

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Bake for 30 minutes , until eggplant is very soft.

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Meanwhile , place bread , herbs , and garlic into food processor and run for 15- 20 seconds.

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Transfer crumb mixture to bowl and toss lightly with remaining olive oil.

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When eggplant is removed from oven , spoon crumbs on top of them.

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This dish can be made ahead to this point and refrigerated.

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10 minutes before serving , preheat broiler.

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Place the dish so that the stuffing is about 6-8 inches away from broiler unit.

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Broil 5-6 minutes , until topping is browned.

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Ingredients

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eggplants, olive oil, sea salt, bread, fresh chives, fresh parsley, garlic cloves