Crispy Eggplant Recipe

Introduction

This crispy eggplant recipe features tender slices coated in a crunchy golden crust, making it a perfect snack or side dish. It’s simple to prepare and delivers satisfying texture and flavor every time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups eggplant, sliced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Step 1: Slice the eggplant into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Sprinkle salt over the slices and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Step 2: Pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels. Prepare your breading station by placing flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with black pepper in a third bowl.
3. Step 3: Dip each eggplant slice first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumb mixture.
4. Step 4: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and crispy.
5. Step 5: Transfer the fried eggplant to paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the panko breadcrumbs before coating.
• Use an air fryer for a healthier alternative by cooking at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• If you prefer softer eggplant, slice thicker and reduce frying time slightly.

Storage

Store leftover crispy eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of breadcrumb?

Yes, regular breadcrumbs can be used instead of panko, but panko will provide a lighter, crunchier texture.

Do I need to salt the eggplant before frying?

Salting helps remove excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplant, resulting in a better texture and flavor, so it’s recommended.

Crispy Eggplant Recipe

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4.9 from 484 reviews

This crispy eggplant recipe features tender eggplant slices coated in a crunchy golden crust, fried to perfection. It’s an ideal snack or side dish with a delightful texture and savory flavor that pairs well with various meals.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Produce

• 2 cups Eggplant, sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds

Refrigerated

• 2 large Eggs, beaten

Baking & Spices

• 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper
• 1 tsp Salt

Oils & Vinegars

• 1/2 cup Vegetable oil

Bread & Baked Goods

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Slice and Salt Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Sprinkle salt evenly over the slices and let them rest for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispier texture when fried.
2. Pat Dry Eggplant: After salting, pat the eggplant slices dry using paper towels to remove the released moisture for better breading adherence.
3. Prepare Breading Station: Set up three separate shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with black pepper for seasoning.
4. Coat Eggplant Slices: Dip each eggplant slice first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumb and black pepper mixture.
5. Heat Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering and hot enough for frying.
6. Fry Eggplant: Carefully place the breaded eggplant slices into the hot oil. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried eggplant slices and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm as a snack or side dish.

Notes

• Salting the eggplant helps reduce bitterness and excess moisture for a crispier finish.
• Use fresh panko breadcrumbs for the crunchiest coating.
• You can add additional spices like garlic powder or paprika to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the eggplant from absorbing too much oil and becoming soggy.
• Serve immediately for the best crispiness.

Keywords: Crispy eggplant, fried eggplant, breadcrumb eggplant, vegetarian side dish, snack recipes