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Fried Eggplant Sandwich with Harissa Mayo


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  • Author: Chef Sophia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches

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:
  • 1 small eggplant, sliced into ¼-inch rounds

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

  • ½ cup flour (all-purpose or whole wheat)

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 eggs, beaten (or flax eggs – see notes)

  • Grapeseed oil, for coating the pan

  • For the Sandwiches:
  • 8 slices bread, toasted if desired

  • ½ cup mayonnaise (regular or vegan)

  • 2 tbsp harissa paste

  • 1 cup lettuce

  • 1 large tomato, sliced

  • ½ cup sprouts (optional)


Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Eggplant
  2. In a large bowl, combine panko, flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs (or prepare flax eggs). Make sure both bowls are wide enough to dip a slice of eggplant.
  4. Heat grapeseed oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  5. Dip an eggplant slice into the egg, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
  6. Cook in the skillet for 3 minutes on the first side, then 2 minutes on the other, until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Repeat with remaining slices, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding.
  8. Transfer cooked eggplant to a towel-lined plate.
  9. Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
  10. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and harissa paste. Spread evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
  11. On four slices of bread, layer lettuce, cooked eggplant, tomato slices, and sprouts if using.
  12. Top with remaining slices, mayonnaise side down.
  13. 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