Crispy Fried Eggplant
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Crispy Fried Eggplant
Make the crispiest fried eggplant at home in just 25 minutes
If you’re craving a crunchy, golden appetizer or side dish, this crispy fried eggplant recipe is for you!Perfectly seasoned with a blend of garlic salt, smoked paprika, and onion powder, each slice delivers irresistible flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, a starter, or layering it into sandwiches or salads, this crispy eggplant is a must-try!
Learn how to make fried eggplant at home with simple pantry spices, a foolproof breading method, and expert tips for the ultimate crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Fried Eggplant Recipe
Ultra crunchy thanks to panko breadcrumbs
Simple seasoning with bold flavor
Frying technique that keeps it crispy, not soggy
Easy ingredient swaps (egg-free option included! )
Great for appetizers, side dishes, or plant-based meals
Ingredient Substitutions
No Eggs? Replace the eggs with ½ cup milk or heavy cream for binding.
No Panko? Use regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or gluten-free panko for variation.
Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
Tips for Extra Crispy Fried Eggplant
Use panko breadcrumbs — they’re lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.
Make sure your oil is hot enough (350°F) before frying.
Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady.
Drain on a wire rack for maximum crispiness (instead of paper towels, which trap steam).
Serving Suggestions
Appetizer: Enjoy these crispy fried eggplant slices dipped in ranch, marinara, or a rich garlic aioli for a flavorful starter.
Meals: Serve them as a delicious side with jerk chicken, grilled fish, or create a hearty vegetarian plate. I personally love pairing them with rice, curry chickpeas, and a side of sautéed spinach or callaloo for a wholesome, flavorful meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep fried eggplant from getting soggy?
Make sure to bread it well, fry in hot oil, and drain on a wire rack immediately after frying.
Can I air fry this recipe instead of deep frying?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes , flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
Can I freeze fried eggplant?
You can freeze the breaded (butunfried) slices. Freeze in a single layer, then fry straight from frozen.
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Crispy Fried Eggplant
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Yeild: 0
Description
This crispy fried eggplant recipe is golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor! Seasoned with bold spices and coated in panko breadcrumbs, it’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a hearty vegetarian meal. Quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Lawry’s seasoned salt (or regular salt)
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs (or substitute: ½ cup milk or heavy cream)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for deep frying (vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil)
Instructions
Prep the Eggplant
- 1Slice the eggplant into ¼-inch thick rounds.
- 2Optional: Lightly salt both sides and let them sit for 15 minutes to remove bitterness. Pat dry with paper towels.
Set Up Breading Stations
- 1In one bowl: whisk the eggs (or milk/heavy cream if substituting).
- 2In a second bowl: place the flour.
- 3In a third bowl: combine panko breadcrumbs with all the spices — black pepper, Lawry’s seasoned salt, chili powder, garlic salt, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Bread the Eggplant
- 1Dredge each slice in flour, shaking off excess.
- 2Dip into the egg wash (or milk/heavy cream).
- 3Coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko mixture. Press breadcrumbs in firmly to stick.
Fry to Perfection
- 1Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- 2Fry eggplant slices in small batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- 3Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated-Fat: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
- Sodium: 470 mg
Category: Appetizer
Keywords:
Crispy fried eggplant, how to make crispy fried eggplant, easy fried eggplant recipe, eggplant appetizer, eggplant with panko breadcrumbs, fried eggplant without egg, caribbean fried eggplant recipe
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