Fried eggplant is a tasty treat that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s as satisfying as a hug in food form! Plus, it’s super easy to make.
My favorite part? Dipping it in some marinara sauce—yum! If you haven’t tried it yet, you totally should! Just be ready for your friends to ask for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggplant: Choose a large eggplant that feels firm and heavy. If you find it too bitter, salting helps remove moisture and bitterness—do it for about 30 minutes before cooking. If you’re short on time, go for smaller eggplants, which tend to be sweeter.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs make the eggplant extra crispy. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too. You can even use crushed cornflakes for a fun twist!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice flavor kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast. It won’t be as cheesy, but it still brings a nice umami flavor!
How Do You Get That Perfect Crunch?
Achieving that crispy texture is all about the breading process. Here’s how to nail it every time:
- First, make sure your eggplant slices are dry after salting. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
- Dredge in flour first; it helps the egg stick better for the breadcrumbs.
- Make sure to coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs lightly so they adhere well.
- Fry in hot oil, but don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy fried eggplant every time! Don’t forget to serve it hot for the best texture. Enjoy!
How to Make Delicious Fried Eggplant!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Marinara sauce, for dipping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fried eggplant recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll be enjoying a delicious snack in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggplant:
Start by laying the eggplant slices on a paper towel-lined tray. If you want to reduce bitterness, sprinkle salt on both sides and let them sit for 20-30 minutes. This helps to draw out moisture. After, gently pat them dry with another towel.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Grab three shallow dishes. Pour the flour into the first dish and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a little more salt and pepper.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You know it’s ready when the oil looks shimmering and hot.
4. Bread the Eggplant Slices:
Take an eggplant slice and first coat it in the flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the extra drip off. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture to coat it well.
5. Fry the Eggplant:
Carefully place the breaded eggplant slices in the hot oil, ensuring they’re in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Plate:
Once fried, transfer the eggplant slices to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Arrange the crispy fried eggplant on a serving plate. Sprinkle it with a bit more Parmesan cheese and some chopped fresh parsley for color. If you like, serve it warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful fried eggplant!
Can I Use Different Types of Oil for Frying?
Absolutely! While vegetable oil works well, you can also use canola oil, peanut oil, or olive oil for frying. Just be mindful of the smoke point—choose an oil that can withstand the heat without burning.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No problem! Regular breadcrumbs can be used instead, but the texture won’t be as crispy. For a fun alternative, you can even use crushed cornflakes or tortilla chips for a unique crunch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness instead of microwaving!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to substitute for the regular versions. The process remains the same, and you’ll still get deliciously crispy eggplant!
