Golden Fried Eggplant with Garlic Sour Cream Sauce Recipe

This Golden Fried Eggplant recipe is a savory, crispy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal. The eggplants are first blanched in water and salt, then coated in a flavorful mix of flour, breadcrumbs, and spices, and fried until golden brown. Topped with a creamy garlic dill sour cream sauce, this dish brings together the perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior with rich flavors. It’s easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser for those who love eggplant and fried foods.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-5 people

Cuisine

This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines, where eggplant is often used in a variety of dishes, from appetizers to main courses. The crispy fried eggplant, combined with a creamy, garlicky sauce, makes this dish versatile and appealing to all palates.

Full List of Ingredients

• 3 aubergines (eggplants)
• 4 large eggs
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 150 grams breadcrumbs
• 50 grams flour
• Paprika, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying
• 3-4 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh dill, chopped

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Eggplants
   Peel the eggplants and cut them in half. Transfer the eggplant halves into a bowl, fill with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 1 minute. Once done, drain the water from the eggplants and set them aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture
   In a bowl, crack 4 eggs and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise and 1 teaspoon of mustard to the eggs, then whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.

3. Prepare the Coating
   In a separate dish, mix the breadcrumbs, flour, and a pinch of paprika. This will be used to coat the eggplant.

4. Coat the Eggplant
   Once the eggplant halves have cooled, dip them into the egg mixture, making sure they are well coated. Afterward, roll them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks well.

5. Fry the Eggplant
   Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded eggplant halves and fry them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.

6. Prepare the Garlic Sour Cream Sauce
   While the eggplant is frying, mix 3-4 tablespoons of sour cream with the minced garlic and fresh dill. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until smooth.

7. Serve
   Once the eggplant is golden brown and crispy, remove them from the pan and drain excess oil on a paper towel. Serve the fried eggplant hot, topped with the creamy garlic dill sauce.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 8 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Cholesterol: 65 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Eggplant is widely used in Mediterranean and Eastern European cooking. The crispy-fried eggplant is a staple in many cuisines, often served as a side dish or appetizer. The addition of a creamy garlic dill sauce adds a delicious contrast to the rich flavor of the fried eggplant, making this recipe both a crowd-pleaser and a great way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Flavorful: The fried eggplant, with its crispy coating, is a perfect contrast to the tender interior.
2. Creamy and Savory Sauce: The garlic dill sour cream sauce adds a creamy, savory element that complements the eggplant perfectly.
3. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
4. Versatile: It can be served as a main dish, side dish, or appetizer, and can be paired with salads, rice, or bread.
5. Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is vegetarian, making it a great option for meatless meals.

Health Benefits

1. Eggplant: Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, eggplant promotes digestive health and provides a source of essential nutrients.
2. Garlic: Garlic has antibacterial properties and is known to support immune health and cardiovascular function.
3. Sour Cream: While sour cream adds richness, it also provides calcium, which is important for bone health.
4. Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats, olive oil helps reduce inflammation and supports heart health.

Serving Suggestions

1. With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced and light meal.
2. As an Appetizer: Serve the fried eggplant slices with a side of tzatziki or hummus as a starter for your next gathering.
3. With Rice or Quinoa: For a more filling meal, serve the eggplant with a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous.
4. On Toast: Serve the fried eggplant slices on toasted bread with a drizzle of the garlic sour cream sauce for a delicious sandwich.

Cooking Tips

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the eggplant in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.
2. Drain the Eggplant: After frying, place the eggplant on paper towels to absorb excess oil and keep it crispy.
3. Make the Sauce Ahead of Time: You can prepare the garlic sour cream sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
4. Use Fresh Eggplant: Fresh eggplant is ideal for this recipe, as older eggplants can become too bitter.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Different Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for a different flavor profile.
3. Add Cheese: Top the fried eggplant with melted cheese for an extra indulgent dish.
4. Vegan Version: Use vegan sour cream and skip the eggs to make a vegan version of this dish.

Conclusion

This Golden Fried Eggplant with Garlic Sour Cream Sauce is an irresistible dish that combines the crispiness of fried eggplant with a creamy and tangy sauce. It’s a simple and quick recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a snack, side dish, or main course. The combination of flavors is sure to satisfy your taste buds, making it a must-try for eggplant lovers.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen eggplant?
   Fresh eggplant is best, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before frying.

2. Can I bake the eggplant instead of frying it?
   Yes, you can bake the eggplant at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
   Yes, the garlic sour cream sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

4. Can I make this dish without mayonnaise?
   Yes, you can skip the mayonnaise or replace it with a little more yogurt for a lighter version.

5. How do I know when the eggplant is fully cooked?
   The eggplant should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a soft and tender interior.

6. Can I make this dish spicy?
   Yes, add chili flakes or jalapeños to the breadcrumb mixture or sauce for extra heat.

7. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can use mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese you prefer for this recipe.

9. How can I make this dish vegan?
   Use vegan sour cream and skip the eggs in the batter to make this dish vegan-friendly.

10. What can I serve this dish with?
    Serve with a side of rice, salad, or a dip of your choice, such as tzatziki or hummus.