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eggplant sandwich

Crispy Eggplant Sandwich Recipe (Gluten Free)

This recipe packs a flavorful punch with crispy breaded eggplant and a creamy garlic aioli, all nestled on fluffy gluten-free bread.
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Ingredients
  

For the eggplant:

  • 1 large eggplant
  • 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs ensure they are gluten-free certified
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Avocado oil for frying

For the garlic aioli:

  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup mayonnaise or vegan sub
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of dried parsley

For the sandwich:

  • 4 slices gluten-free bread toasted
  • 2 large tomatoes sliced
  • 1 cup lettuce leaves
  • ½ red onion thinly sliced
  • ½ cucumber thinly sliced
  • 4 slices American cheese or vegan sub

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the eggplant: Slice the eggplant into ½ inch thick rounds. Arrange them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and sprinkle generously with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels.
  • Set up the breading station: In three separate shallow bowls, whisk the flour with salt and pepper in one, the beaten eggs in the second, and the panko breadcrumbs in the third.
  • Bread the eggplant: Dredge each eggplant slice in the flour, then coat it completely in the egg mixture. Finally, press both sides firmly into the panko breadcrumbs to ensure good coverage.
  • Fry the eggplant: Heat enough avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat to reach about 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the breaded eggplant slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  • Make the garlic aioli: In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and dried parsley.
  • Assemble the sandwiches: Spread a generous amount of garlic aioli on each toasted bread slice. Layer with lettuce, tomato slices, red onion slices, cucumber slices, American cheese, and a crispy eggplant slice. Top with the other bread slice and enjoy!

Notes

  • An easy way to make this eggplant sandwich vegan, use vegan cheese and vegan mayonnaise in the aioli.
  • You can also use grilled eggplant in this recipe by omitting the breadcrumbs and grilling it on a grill or indoor grill top to create a grilled eggplant sandwich.