Smoked Eggplant Parmesan (Vegan Cheese)

Ingredients

• 2 medium Eggplant
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• 2 cups Marinara sauce
• 1 cup Vegan mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup Vegan parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves(optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat a smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C) and add wood chips for smoke; brush the eggplant slices (about 1/2 inch thick) with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

2. 2

   Place the eggplant slices on the smoker rack and smoke for 20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they are tender and have a light smoky flavor.

3. 3

   While the eggplant smokes, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat for 5 minutes, then keep warm.

4. 4

   In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce, then arrange a layer of smoked eggplant slices, sprinkle half of the vegan mozzarella and half of the vegan parmesan, and repeat layers, ending with sauce and the remaining cheeses on top.

5. 5

   Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

6. 6

   Remove from the oven, let rest 5 minutes, garnish with fresh basil leaves if using, and serve.