Fried eggplant is a tasty dish that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside. It’s often coated in a light batter or breadcrumbs, giving it that golden crunch we all love!
Truth be told, I can’t resist snacking on these right out of the pan. They make a great side or a fun appetizer. Just be ready for everyone to ask for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggplant: Choose a firm, glossy eggplant for the best results. If you’re unable to find eggplant, zucchini can be a great substitute! It’s delicious when fried, too.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using Italian seasoned breadcrumbs as they add extra flavor. If you’re gluten-free, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely salty and nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Eggs: If you need an egg substitute, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce for a similar binding effect.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Fried Eggplant?
To get that golden, crispy exterior, the preparation of the eggplant is key. Here’s how to ensure your fried eggplant turns out perfectly:
- Salt the eggplant slices before frying to draw out moisture and reduce bitterness. Rinse and pat them dry before breading.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the eggplant. You can test it by dropping in a small piece; if it sizzles, you’re ready!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; too many slices at once can lower the oil temperature, making them soggy instead of crispy.
- After frying, place the eggplant on paper towels to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy when served.
Enjoy your homemade fried eggplant as a side dish or snack—it’s a crunchy delight!
How to Make Fried Eggplant
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large eggplant
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup bread crumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce or spicy dipping sauce (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook. Allow for 20-30 minutes of sitting time for the eggplant to draw out moisture before frying. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to delicious fried eggplant on your plate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Eggplant:
Start by washing the eggplant. Cut it into slices that are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Lay the slices on a paper towel and sprinkle a little salt on both sides. This helps draw out moisture and reduce bitterness. Let them sit for about 20-30 minutes. Afterward, pat them dry with additional paper towels.
2. Setting Up Your Breading Station:
While the eggplant sits, you can prepare three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, crack and beat the two eggs together. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mixing these together adds great flavor!
3. Heating the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch deep of vegetable oil over medium heat. It’s ready when the oil is shimmering. You can test it by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s perfect for frying!
4. Coating the Eggplant:
Take each slice of eggplant and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is well covered for a crispy finish!
5. Frying the Eggplant:
Carefully add the coated eggplant slices into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to soggy eggplant!
6. Draining and Serving:
Once fried, transfer the eggplant to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Arrange the fried eggplants on a serving platter and sprinkle them with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Serve them warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick!
Enjoy your delightful crispy and savory fried eggplant slices! They’re sure to be a hit! 🍆
Can I Use Olive Oil for Frying?
Yes, you can use olive oil for frying, but keep in mind that it has a lower smoke point than vegetable oil. If you choose olive oil, monitor the heat to prevent it from burning and imparting a bitter flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Eggplant?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep them crispy, rather than using a microwave which may make them soggy.
Can I Make Fried Eggplant Without Eggs?
Absolutely! You can substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce. This will still help the breadcrumbs adhere to the eggplant slices!
What Other Seasonings Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add spices like cayenne pepper for heat, smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or even Italian herbs. Customize the flavor profile to suit your taste preferences!