10 Tasty Vegan Eggplant Recipes

Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that serves as a fantastic base for a variety of delicious vegan dishes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore ten mouthwatering vegan eggplant recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of this nutritious ingredient.

Eggplant Parmesan

This classic Italian dish gets a vegan twist by replacing the traditional cheese with a flavorful vegan cashew or almond-based cheese. Breaded and baked eggplant slices are layered with marinara sauce and dairy-free cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly.

Grilled Eggplant with Chimichurri Sauce

Grilled eggplant slices are marinated in a tangy and herbaceous chimichurri sauce made with fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. Serve as a side dish or atop a salad for a burst of flavor.

Eggplant Curry

This fragrant and comforting curry features tender eggplant simmered in a rich and creamy coconut milk-based sauce infused with spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Serve with rice or naan for a satisfying meal.

Vegan Eggplant Lasagna

Layers of thinly sliced eggplant replace traditional lasagna noodles in this hearty and satisfying dish. Alternate layers of roasted eggplant, marinara sauce, vegan ricotta cheese, and spinach create a delicious and nutritious plant-based lasagna.

Eggplant Caponata

Caponata is a Sicilian eggplant dish featuring diced eggplant cooked with tomatoes, onions, celery, olives, capers, and vinegar. Serve as a savory appetizer spread on crusty bread or as a topping for pasta or grilled tofu.

Stuffed Eggplant Boats

Eggplant halves are hollowed out and filled with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Baked until tender, these stuffed eggplant boats make for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Baba Ganoush

This creamy and smoky eggplant dip is made by roasting eggplant until tender, then blending it with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Serve with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a delicious appetizer or snack.

Eggplant Rollatini

Thinly sliced eggplant is grilled or roasted, then rolled up with a savory filling of vegan ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs. The rolls are then baked with marinara sauce until heated through and bubbly.

Ratatouille

This classic French vegetable stew features eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. Serve as a main dish with crusty bread or as a side dish alongside grilled tofu or tempeh.

Eggplant Stir-Fry

Thinly sliced eggplant is stir-fried with an array of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Serve over rice or noodles for a quick and satisfying meal.

FAQs About Vegan Eggplant Recipes

Can I freeze eggplant?

Yes, you can freeze eggplant for future use. To freeze, slice or dice the eggplant, blanch briefly in boiling water, then plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process. Pat dry, arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Do I need to salt eggplant before cooking?

Salting eggplant before cooking is optional but can help draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Simply sprinkle salt over sliced or diced eggplant, let sit for 20-30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry before cooking.

Can I grill eggplant without oil?

Yes, you can grill eggplant without oil by brushing the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking, then grilling the eggplant slices directly on the grates until tender and charred, flipping as needed.

How do I choose a ripe eggplant?

Look for eggplants that are firm, smooth-skinned, and free of blemishes or soft spots. The stem should be green and fresh-looking, and the eggplant should feel heavy for its size.

Can I eat eggplant skin?

Yes, eggplant skin is edible and contains valuable nutrients and fiber. However, some people prefer to peel eggplant, especially if it is particularly thick or tough.

Can I substitute eggplant for meat in recipes?

Yes, eggplant can be a delicious and nutritious meat substitute in many recipes. Its meaty texture and ability to absorb flavors make it a versatile ingredient in vegan and vegetarian cooking.

How long does cooked eggplant last in the refrigerator?

Cooked eggplant can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion

With their rich flavor and meaty texture, eggplants are a fantastic addition to any vegan diet. Whether grilled, roasted, stuffed, or blended into dips, eggplant offers endless possibilities for creating delicious and nutritious plant-based dishes. Experiment with these ten tasty vegan eggplant recipes to discover new favorites and enjoy the versatility of this versatile vegetable.