Delicious Vegan Eggplant Parmesan: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

This Delicious Vegan Eggplant Parmesan is a plant-based twist on a classic Italian dish. Made with breaded and baked eggplant slices, rich tomato sauce, and melty vegan cheese, this dish is both satisfying and full of flavor. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this comforting meal!

Ingredients:

For the Eggplant:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 cup of unsweetened plant-based milk
• 2 cups of breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

For Assembling:

• 2 cups of vegan mozzarella cheese (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

1. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Rinse the eggplant slices and pat them dry with a clean towel.

Step 2: Bread the Eggplant

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with plant-based milk, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, then the plant-based milk, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat. Place the breaded eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Eggplant

1. Bake the breaded eggplant slices in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Eggplant Parmesan

1. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.
3. Place a layer of baked eggplant slices over the sauce.
4. Sprinkle a layer of vegan mozzarella cheese and nutritional yeast (if using) over the eggplant.
5. Repeat the layers until all the eggplant slices and sauce are used, finishing with a layer of vegan cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake the Eggplant Parmesan

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Let the Eggplant Parmesan cool slightly before slicing.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

Tips and Variations:

• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a spicy kick.
• Different Cheeses: Use a mix of vegan mozzarella and vegan Parmesan for a more complex flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, including the flour and breadcrumbs, are gluten-free if needed.

This Delicious Vegan Eggplant Parmesan is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich layers of breaded eggplant, savory tomato sauce, and melty vegan cheese. Happy cooking!