This delicious eggplant recipe is a delightful and flavorful dish perfect for any meal. The eggplant is marinated, battered, and fried to a golden crisp, creating a satisfying texture and taste. Paired with fresh tomatoes and red onions, this dish is both nutritious and appetizing. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this eggplant recipe is sure to impress.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Total Time: 43-45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 eggplant
- 2-3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 80 ml soy sauce
- 1 liter cold water
- Optional: a little salt for the water
- 3 eggs
- Ground coriander (to taste)
- Seasoning for meat (to taste)
- Dried parsley (to taste)
- Dried garlic (to taste)
- 3 tbsp sour cream
- 2-3 tbsp corn flour
- 1/2 cup flour (60 g)
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 red onion
Instructions
- Preparing the Eggplant:
- Slice the eggplant into rounds or desired shapes.
- In a large bowl, mix 2-3 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 80 ml soy sauce, and 1 liter of cold water. Add a little salt if desired.
- Submerge the eggplant slices in the mixture and leave to soak for 15-20 minutes.
- Preparing the Batter:
- In a separate bowl, beat the 3 eggs.
- Add ground coriander, seasoning for meat, dried parsley, and dried garlic to taste.
- Mix in 3 tbsp sour cream, 2-3 tbsp corn flour, and 1/2 cup flour until a smooth batter forms.
- Preparing the Vegetables:
- Slice the tomatoes and red onion into thin rounds.
- Frying the Eggplant:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat until well-heated.
- Dip the soaked eggplant slices into the batter, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Place the battered eggplant slices in the hot oil.
- Fry until golden brown, then turn them over.
- Continue to cook for 8-10 minutes over low heat until fully cooked through and golden on both sides.
- Serving:
- Serve the fried eggplant slices hot, garnished with the sliced tomatoes and red onion.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and healthy option.
- Enjoy as an appetizer or snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the eggplant to achieve a crispy texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; fry the eggplant in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the seasoning in the batter to suit your taste preferences.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggplant: Rich in fiber, which aids in digestion.
- Tomatoes: Provide vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants.
- Eggs: A good source of protein and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and corn flour.
- Contains Eggs and Dairy
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy eggplant.
- The dish is versatile and can be served in various ways.
- The combination of crispy batter and tender eggplant is irresistible.
- It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
This delicious eggplant recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, it’s a dish that satisfies both texture and flavor cravings. Paired with fresh tomatoes and onions, it’s not only tasty but also nutritious. Enjoy cooking this delightful dish with love and share it with your family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I bake the eggplant instead of frying it?
- Yes, you can bake the battered eggplant slices at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Can I use a different type of flour?
- Yes, you can use almond flour or chickpea flour for a different flavor and texture.
- What dipping sauce goes well with this dish?
- A yogurt-based dip, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo pairs well with fried eggplant.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- You can substitute the eggs with a flax egg or chickpea flour batter and use a vegan sour cream.
- How do I keep the eggplant from becoming soggy?
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the batter and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- What can I use instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option?
- You can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
- How do I prevent the eggplant from absorbing too much oil?
- Make sure the eggplant slices are well-drained and the oil is hot enough before frying.
- Can I add other vegetables to the batter?
- Yes, you can add thinly sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the batter.
- How do I store and reheat the leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.