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Crispy Eggplant Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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