Savor the comforting flavors of classic Italian cuisine with a plant-based twist in this Vegan Eggplant Aubergine Parmesan recipe. This dish features tender layers of crispy, golden-breaded eggplant slices baked to perfection and smothered in rich, flavorful vegan marinara sauce. Topped with melty vegan mozzarella cheese and garnished with fragrant fresh basil, this dairy-free take on a beloved favorite is wholly satisfying and entirely cruelty-free. The recipe combines simple pantry staples like nutritional yeast, panko breadcrumbs, and plant-based milk to create its signature crisp texture and umami-packed flavor. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant special occasion, this dish is baked, not fried, for a lighter yet indulgent experience. Pair it with warm, crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete vegan feast.
Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay the slices on a baking sheet or clean surface and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
Pat the eggplant slices dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove the drawn-out liquid and excess salt.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare three shallow bowls: one with the plant-based milk, one with the flour, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, then the plant-based milk, and finally coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat with all the slices.
Arrange the breaded eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly drizzle or spray olive oil on top of the slices to encourage crispiness.
Bake the slices for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden and crispy. Alternatively, pan-fry them in olive oil until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side, then drain them on paper towels.
In a large baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange a layer of crispy eggplant slices on top, followed by another thin layer of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of vegan mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and a generous topping of vegan mozzarella.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Serving size | 2573.4 grams (2573.4g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 3325 |
Total Fat 149.60g | 192% |
Saturated Fat 76.30g | 382% |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 7160mg | 311% |
Total Carbohydrate 338.60g | 123% |
Dietary Fiber 39.80g | 142% |
Total Sugars 65.60g | |
Protein 82.90g | 166% |
Vitamin D 150IU | 750% |
Calcium 3401mg | 262% |
Iron 30mg | 165% |
Potassium 4702mg | 100% |
Source of Calories