French Fried Eggplant(6 To 8 Appetizers)
Crispy, golden eggplant sticks with a savory coating, perfect as appetizers or snacks. They offer a satisfying crunch and can be served with cocktail sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the eggplant.
- Cut the eggplant lengthwise into 1/2-inch strips.
- Dip the strips in flour, then in milk, and roll in cracker meal.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F.
- Fry the eggplant sticks a few at a time, without crowding, for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Ensure the oil temperature stays at 350°F during frying.
- Remove the sticks from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Sprinkle with seasoned salt and serve with cocktail sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider double-dipping the eggplant strips in the flour and cracker meal. If you don't have cracker meal, crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs can be good substitutes. Adjust the seasoned salt to your taste, and for a bit of spice, add some cayenne pepper to the flour. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
These French Fried Eggplant strips are perfect as appetizers and pair beautifully with cocktail sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or as a side with a grilled protein. They also make a delightful addition to a vegetarian platter, complementing other finger foods.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the eggplant soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Fried Eggplant(6 To 8 Appetizers) contains roughly 427 calories, with 4g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use egg instead of milk in the batter?
Yes, you can use beaten egg instead of milk for a richer flavor and a thicker coating. Just dip the eggplant strips in flour, then in the egg, and finally in the cracker meal. This will create a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.
What type of eggplant is best for frying?
Larger, firmer eggplants are ideal for frying as they yield more substantial strips. Look for eggplants that are shiny and heavy for their size, with no blemishes. Varieties like globe or Italian eggplants work well for this recipe.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider baking the eggplant strips instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the coated strips on a baking sheet, and spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).