These Crispy Fried Eggplant Strips are a delicious and addictive snack or appetizer. Coated in a flavorful mixture and fried to golden perfection, these eggplant strips are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 eggplants
- 1 egg
- Salt, to taste (for egg mixture)
- Pepper, to taste (for egg mixture)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (or mixed herbs)
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 tsp salt (for cornstarch)
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- Oil, for frying
Directions
Prepare the Eggplants:
- Cut and Salt:
- Wash and cut the eggplants into finger-like strips.
- Sprinkle a little salt over the eggplant strips and let them sit for 10 minutes.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Prepare the Coating:
- Egg Mixture:
- In a bowl, beat the egg and season with salt, pepper, and paprika (or mixed herbs).
- Cornstarch Mixture:
- In another bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Bread Crumbs:
- Place the bread crumbs in a third bowl.
Coat the Eggplants:
- Coat in Cornstarch:
- Dip each eggplant strip first in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring it is well coated.
- Coat in Egg Mixture:
- Next, dip it in the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat in Bread Crumbs:
- Finally, coat it with bread crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick well.
Fry the Eggplants:
- Heat Oil:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry:
- Fry the coated eggplant strips in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain:
- Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
To Serve:
- Serve Hot:
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as an appetizer with marinara sauce or garlic aioli.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; fry the eggplant strips in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- For extra flavor, add grated Parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs mixture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggplant: Low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in antioxidants.
- Egg: Provides protein and essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D.
- Cornstarch and Bread Crumbs: Add a crispy texture without adding significant calories.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: No (contains egg)
- Gluten-Free: No (contains bread crumbs, use gluten-free bread crumbs to make it gluten-free)
- Dairy-Free: Yes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love these Crispy Fried Eggplant Strips for their delightful crunch and savory flavor. They are easy to make and perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a tasty snack. The combination of crispy coating and tender eggplant is simply irresistible.
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Conclusion
Enjoy these delicious and crispy fried eggplant strips, perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try them with your favorite dipping sauce and savor the wonderful flavors. Bon appétit!