crispy fried eggplant recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best crispy fried eggplant recipe

I’m thrilled to share with you my crispy fried eggplant recipe, a dish that has become a staple in our household. It all started when I stumbled upon a traditional Italian recipe for eggplant fritters, which I adapted to create a crispy and flavorful dish that my family and kids love.

The combination of crunchy eggplant slices, savory herbs, and a hint of spice is simply irresistible. What I love most about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even as a snack.

My kids devour it in seconds, and I’m happy to oblige their requests for seconds (and thirds). The health benefits of this recipe are numerous – eggplant is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent addition to any meal.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various seasonings and spices to give this recipe an extra kick. The result is a dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor.

Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian main course or a side dish that’s sure to impress, this crispy fried eggplant recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household too.

Crispy Fried Eggplant

Crispy Fried Eggplant

4.5 from 1476 votes

Golden and crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, these fried eggplant slices are seasoned with garlic and herbs. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they stay crispy for hours.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Eggplant

1 large eggplant (about 1 lb), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1 tsp salt

For the Batter

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup cold water
1 large egg

For Frying

Vegetable oil, for deep frying

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place eggplant slices in a colander and sprinkle with salt.
2Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.
3This step ensures a crispier coating.
4In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
5Add cold water and egg, then whisk until smooth and lump-free; the batter should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
6Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
7Use enough oil to submerge the eggplant slices fully, about 2 inches deep.
8Dip each eggplant slice into the batter, letting excess drip off.
9Carefully place into the hot oil without overcrowding; fry in batches if needed.
10Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning once, until deep golden brown and crispy.
11The eggplant should be tender inside when pierced with a fork.
12Transfer fried eggplant to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
13Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Whisk
Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
Slotted spoon
Paper towels
Baking sheet

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For extra crunch, add 2 tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs to the batter. Serve with marinara sauce or a yogurt dip.

Watch Video Of How Crispy Fried Eggplant Works

Crispy fried eggplant is always a good idea because it works for so many occasions. I make it for family dinners, potlucks, and even holiday gatherings.

It disappears fast and pairs well with dips or as a side dish. To store leftovers, keep them in an open container in the fridge so they stay as crisp as possible.

Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375 degrees for about 5 minutes to bring back the crunch. You can also serve the fried eggplant over pasta, in sandwiches, or alongside a fresh salad.

This recipe is a reliable crowd pleaser that I turn to again and again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Fried Eggplant

What type of eggplant should I use for this recipe?

The best type of eggplant for this recipe is one that’s firm, yet tender. Look for Italian or Japanese eggplants, which have a slender shape and a sweeter flavor profile.

Can I use other types of vegetables in place of eggplant?

While you can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or yellow squash, the results may vary depending on the specific vegetable used.

How do I get the eggplant slices crispy without deep-frying them?

The secret to achieving crispy eggplant slices lies in the breading process. Be sure to coat the slices evenly with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs before frying them.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the breading mixture and store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to fry the eggplant slices just before serving for optimal crispiness.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

This recipe is suitable for vegetarians but not vegans due to the presence of eggs in the breading mixture.

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