Air-fried eggplant fries are a healthier version of regular fries, with fewer calories than potato fries. They are lighter fries with a crispy breadcrumb coating and a tender interior. They are simply delicious, and no one can detect what is inside. However, the seeds of the eggplant, if noticed, can make anyone suspicious. This snack is also great for introducing eggplant to picky eaters.
What goes into this recipe?
To make crispy eggplant fries, you will need the following ingredients: The recipe uses soaking the eggplant which helps reduce the bitterness of eggplant. By making these in an air fryer, you get a very crispy texture without any oily mess. The seasoned flour coating and bread crumbs together ensure that they are perfectly crispy and flavorful. You can always deep fry these!
Eggplant: I used small eggplant for fries because they are less bitter. Long or globe-shaped, both work well for this recipe. I like to peel eggplant so my kids eat it without fuss. You can skip peeling for less effort and extra nutrition. Breadcrumbs: To make crispy fries you have to use breadcrumbs. I have used plain breadcrumbs, however, panko, whole wheat, or almond flour can also be used. Flour: I used flour coat first which help the breadcrumb stick well to the fries. You can substitute rice flour or cornstarch for the plain flour. Milk: Soaking the eggplant in milk prevents it from blackening and also remove some of the natural bitterness of the eggplant. Chicken powder: Adding this will give a boost of flavor; you can use any other seasoning of your choice like garlic powder to enhance the flavor. Egg: I use egg wash to coat eggplant fries. If making vegan version, switch eggwash with cornflour slurry. Herbs: I used dried basil. You can use any herbs, such as thyme, oregano, or Italian herbs of your choice.
How to make this recipe?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making delicious eggplant fries: Hungry for more fries? Check these! Deep Fry: Heat 2 inch oil in a pot or wok. Fry breaded eggplant strips on medium heat until golden brown. Fry in batches. The eggplant fries will puff up a bit which is a sign they are cooked completely. Air Fry: To air-fry eggplant fries, simply preheat your air fryer to 175 degrees Celsius for 2 minutes. Place the eggplant fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray the fries lightly with a little cooking spray/ olive oil on both side. Air-fry for 10 minutes at 175 C. Shake after 5 minutes. Bake In the Oven: Place the eggplant fries on the baking sheet lined with baking paper in a single layer. Spray the fries lightly with a little cooking spray/ olive oil. Then bake them in the pre-heated oven for 15-18 minutes at 425ºF/220ºC until golden brown. Flip the eggplant fries midway. Serve immediately, store any leftover eggplant fries in an air-tight container. Air fryer for 2 minutes to reheat if needed. Make ahead: Coating and the breading station is a bit of a hassle but the good thing is that you can coat the eggplant fries with breadcrumbs up to two hours ahead and store them in the fridge. Just before serving deep fry them and serve crispy fried eggplant fries hot and fresh. Serving Suggestions: Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese or try sprinkling some chat masala on the fries before serving.I recommend a spicy dipping sauce like mayo garlic dip or marinara sauce to go with it. Seasonings: You can always use any seasonings you like, onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun, or fajita. Vegetables: Try switching eggplant for zucchini to make zucchini fries. If you try this eggplant fries recipe, I’d LOVE to hear your feedback in the comments. Your 5-ratings motivate me to do my best. Stay connected for more recipes and videos on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Youtube.
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