Description
This Fried Eggplant Sandwich with Harissa Mayo is smoky, crispy, and packed with flavor. Golden, breadcrumb-coated eggplant slices are pan-fried to perfection and layered with fresh tomato, crisp greens, and a creamy, spicy harissa mayo. Quick to prepare and full of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this vegetarian sandwich is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. A satisfying, flavorful bite every time!
Ingredients
- For the Crispy Eggplant:
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1 small eggplant, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
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½ cup panko breadcrumbs
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½ cup flour (all-purpose or whole wheat)
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 eggs, beaten (or flax eggs – see notes)
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Grapeseed oil, for coating the pan
- For the Sandwiches:
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8 slices bread, toasted if desired
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½ cup mayonnaise (regular or vegan)
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2 tbsp harissa paste
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1 cup lettuce
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1 large tomato, sliced
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½ cup sprouts (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Eggplant
- In a large bowl, combine panko, flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs (or prepare flax eggs). Make sure both bowls are wide enough to dip a slice of eggplant.
- Heat grapeseed oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Dip an eggplant slice into the egg, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook in the skillet for 3 minutes on the first side, then 2 minutes on the other, until golden brown and crispy.
- Repeat with remaining slices, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Transfer cooked eggplant to a towel-lined plate.
- Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and harissa paste. Spread evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
- On four slices of bread, layer lettuce, cooked eggplant, tomato slices, and sprouts if using.
- Top with remaining slices, mayonnaise side down.
- Slice in half if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Vegan Variation: Use flax eggs and vegan mayonnaise; ensure bread is vegan.
- Flax Egg Preparation: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseeds with 3 tbsp water; let sit 5 minutes until thickened.
- Serving Tip: Best served immediately for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: Mediterranean