Eggplant Hero Recipe

Slice and sweat eggplant

Trim ends from the eggplants and slice into 1/2" rounds (about 10–12 slices per eggplant). Lay slices on a wire rack or baking sheet and lightly sprinkle both sides with 1 tsp kosher salt. Let sit 20–30 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.

Set up breading station

Place flour in a shallow dish. In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs with 2 tablespoons milk until smooth. In a third shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, remaining 1/2 tsp kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Bread the eggplant

One by one: dredge each eggplant slice in flour (tapping off excess), dip into egg wash (letting excess drip), then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly. Place breaded slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Repeat until all slices are breaded.

Heat oil and fry

Pour vegetable oil into a heavy skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1/4–1/2" (or roughly 1–2 cups depending on pan). Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (or a small breadcrumb sizzles and browns in ~30 seconds). Fry breaded eggplant in batches without overcrowding—about 2–3 minutes per side—until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a rack or paper-towel-lined baking sheet to drain and lightly salt while hot.

Assemble in oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly warm the marinara in a saucepan or microwave until hot. Split hero rolls and brush cut sides lightly with olive oil. On a baking sheet, open each roll cut-side up, spoon about 1/2 cup warmed marinara onto the bottom half of each roll, layer 3–4 fried eggplant slices per sandwich (depending on thickness), top the eggplant with 3 oz (about 3 slices) fresh mozzarella per sandwich, and drizzle another 2 tbsp marinara over the cheese. Add a couple basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Place sandwiches in the oven and bake 6–8 minutes, or until mozzarella is melted and the rolls are warmed through.

Remove sandwiches from oven, close each hero, slice in half if desired, and serve immediately with choice of Caesar or mixed green salad. Provide extra marinara on the side if preferred.