Sweet Soy Eggplant Parm Bites

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup mozzarella
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder(optional)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (15 min): Cut eggplant into 1-inch bite-size cubes. Toss with salt, then coat evenly with cornstarch (add garlic powder and black pepper if using).

2. 2

   Cook (20 min): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed) until crisp and browned, about 10 minutes, turning as needed.

3. 3

   Make glaze (during the last 5 minutes of cooking): In a small bowl, stir soy sauce and honey. Pour over the eggplant and toss until glossy, about 5 minutes.

4. 4

   Assemble and finish (within remaining cook time): Spoon marinara over the bites, top with mozzarella, cover, and cook until cheese melts, about 5 minutes. Serve hot.