Sesame Crusted Eggplant Steaks with Ginger Scallion Sauce and Crispy Quinoa Toasts

Ingredients

• •2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick steaks
• •1/3 cup sesame seeds
• •2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• •1/2 teaspoon salt
• •1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• •2 large eggs, beaten
• •2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• •1/4 cup scallions, finely chopped
• •1 tablespoon ginger, finely minced
• •2 tablespoons soy sauce
• •1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• •1 teaspoon sesame oil
• •1/2 cup quinoa, cooked
• •1 tablespoon olive oil
• •1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• •1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• •1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. 2

   Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick steaks and lightly sprinkle both sides with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

3. 3

   In a shallow dish, combine the sesame seeds, flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and ground black pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.

4. 4

   Dip each eggplant steak into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated, then press them into the sesame seed mixture, coating both sides evenly.

5. 5

   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the sesame-crusted eggplant steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer them to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, until tender.

6. 6

   While the eggplant bakes, prepare the ginger scallion sauce. In a small bowl, mix the chopped scallions, minced ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir well and set aside.

7. 7

   To make the crispy quinoa toasts, spread the cooked quinoa onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until crispy.

8. 8

   To serve, plate the sesame-crusted eggplant steaks and drizzle generously with the ginger scallion sauce. Serve alongside the crispy quinoa toasts for a delightful crunch and added flavor.

9. 9

   Optional: Pair with a fresh side salad, mashed sweet potatoes, or steamed rice to round out the meal.