Ingredients:

• 1 or 2 fresh eggplants (brinjal)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten with a pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tbsp meat masala or any type of ready-mix masala
• 1/2 tsp salt (for the coating)
• Oil for deep frying

Directions:

1. Prepare the Eggplant:
   • Wash and dry the eggplants. Cut them into long, thin sticks, about the size of thick fries. If the eggplant has tough skin, you can peel it off before slicing.
2. Set Up the Coating Station:
   • In a shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In another dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the red chili powder, meat masala, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
   • In a third dish, lightly beat the egg with a pinch of salt.
3. Coat the Eggplant Sticks:
   • Dredge each eggplant stick in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip the floured eggplant stick into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
   • Finally, roll the eggplant stick in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
4. Heat the Oil:
   • Pour enough oil into a deep frying pan or pot to submerge the eggplant sticks. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread or batter into the oil; if it sizzles and browns, the oil is ready.
5. Fry the Eggplant Sticks:
   • Fry the coated eggplant sticks in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the eggplant sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the crispy eggplant sticks hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these eggplant sticks with a side of marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal or as an appetizer at your next gathering.

Cooking Tips:

• For extra crispiness, double-coat the eggplant sticks by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the sticks from becoming soggy.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Eggplant: Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and low in calories, eggplant is a healthy addition to any diet.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian: Yes
• Can Be Made Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 220 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 500mg

Storage:

• These eggplant sticks are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• These eggplant sticks are crispy, flavorful, and a fun way to enjoy eggplant, even for those who aren’t typically fans.
• They make a great snack, appetizer, or side dish and can be paired with various dips and sauces.
• The recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

Conclusion: Give these crispy eggplant sticks a try, and surprise your guests with how delicious and addictive they are. With their golden-brown crust and tender interior, these sticks are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy them fresh and hot, and watch as they disappear from the plate in no time!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I bake the eggplant sticks instead of frying them?
   • Yes, you can bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy.
2. What can I use instead of meat masala?
   • You can substitute with garam masala, curry powder, or any other spice blend you prefer.
3. How do I keep the eggplant sticks crispy?
   • Serve them immediately after frying, and avoid covering them, which can trap steam and make them soggy.
4. Can I use panko breadcrumbs?
   • Yes, panko breadcrumbs will give an even crunchier texture.
5. What dipping sauces go well with eggplant sticks?
   • Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a yogurt-based dip are all great options.
6. Can I make these sticks ahead of time?
   • You can prepare and coat the eggplant sticks in advance, then refrigerate them until ready to fry.
7. What type of oil is best for frying?
   • Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
8. Can I freeze the eggplant sticks?
   • It’s best to freeze them after coating and before frying. Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
9. How do I prevent the breadcrumbs from falling off?
   • Ensure the eggplant sticks are evenly coated in the egg mixture, and press the breadcrumbs onto the sticks firmly before frying.
10. What other vegetables can I prepare in the same way?
    • You can use zucchini, mushrooms, or even cauliflower using the same coating and frying method.