Description
This Crispy Fried Eggplant recipe features perfectly breaded and fried eggplant slices that are golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried in olive oil, these crispy eggplant rounds make a delicious appetizer or side dish. The recipe includes a simple preparation technique that draws out excess moisture from the eggplants for optimal crispiness.
Ingredients
Scale
Eggplants
- 2 medium-sized fresh eggplants
Dredging Station
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
Cooking
- 1 cup olive oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the eggplant slices: Slice the washed eggplants into ¼-inch rounds, sprinkle them generously with salt, and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step helps achieve a crispier final product by preventing sogginess.
- Set up the dredging station: Arrange three shallow dishes – one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko for added crunch). This setup streamlines the breading process.
- Bread the eggplant slices: Take each eggplant slice and first coat it evenly with flour, then dip it thoroughly into the beaten eggs, and finally press it into the breadcrumbs to ensure a full and even coating.
- Fry the eggplant: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, fry the breaded eggplant slices until they turn golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain and serve: Remove the fried eggplant slices from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- Salting the eggplant slices before frying helps reduce bitterness and moisture for crispier results.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent sogginess.
- Drain fried slices properly on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- This recipe can be served with marinara sauce, ranch dip, or as a topping for sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
