Peanut Crusted Eggplant Subs

The incorporation of peanuts into this eggplant dish adds a subtle nutty flavor with a crispy outer texture and a tender inner texture. Ground peanuts and peanut powder also add high-quality plant-based protein, making this dish both delectable and nutritious.
Serves 6
Plant-based

Medium-Sized Eggplant | |
Peanut Powder | |
Balsamic vinegar | |
Peanuts, roasted | |
Bread Crumbs | |
Spices: garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, fresh basil, salt | |
Olive oil | |
Marinara sauce, heated | |
Plant-based cream cheese | |
Hoagie bread, toasted |
Instructions:
Eggplant: (preheat oven to 425° F)
- Cut a medium-sized eggplant lengthwise in approximately 6 ½-inch pieces and set aside.
Optional: sprinkle both sides of each piece of eggplant with salt and let sit for 2 hours. Rinse thoroughly. This allows the eggplant to “sweat” and will give your finished product a firmer texture. - Create a base coating by combining the following and mixing thoroughly:
- ¼ cup peanut powder
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Create the breading mixture by first grinding the peanuts (a) in a food processor. Add the other breading ingredients (b-f) and process until finely ground:
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 ½ cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- ½ tablespoon each: dried oregano and dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Line a baking pan with olive oil (2-3 tablespoons).
- Dip each eggplant slice in the base coating (#2), and then in the breading mixture (#3).
- Bake in the oven until golden brown on each side, about 20-25 minutes (flipping halfway)
Cream cheese basil mix
- While the eggplant is baking, combine in a bowl and whisk thoroughly:
- ½ cup plant-based cream cheese + 1/8 cup water
- 5-6 basil leaves, chopped finely
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon each: onion powder, garlic powder
- Salt to taste (optional: a squeeze of lemon juice)
Once the eggplant is golden brown, your sandwich is ready to assemble. Layer as follows: cream cheese spread, eggplant, marinara sauce. Enjoy with a side salad!