This famous eggplant casserole is made throughout Italy, but the Calabrian version is particularly rich and delicious. Depending on the region, parmigiana is usually prepared with layers of fried or grilled slices of eggplant topped with basil-flavored tomato sauce and local cheese, but this recipe is additionally enriched with boiled eggs and salsiccia calabrese, the tasty Calabrian sausage flavored with fennel seeds.

Parmigiana alla calabrese is usually prepared with provola, mozzarella, and grated pecorino, while the final local touch is hidden in the tomato sauce, prepared with olive oil, tomatoes, and the most appreciated Italian onions - the famous Calabrian cipolla di Tropea.