Crispy & Tender Eggplant Fries: A Hit with Kids!
The Ultimate Eggplant Fries Recipe That Even Picky Eaters Will Love
Got eggplant sitting in your fridge? Wondering what to make, especially if your kids (or you!) aren’t big fans? Try these delicious eggplant fries – crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. They’re perfect as a side dish for children or a fantastic snack with a cold drink.
Ingredients
- 1-2 Eggplants
- 1 cup Tempura flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 Egg
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- Pinch of salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the eggplants thoroughly and prepare them. Slice them into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 cm thick, suitable for children. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the sliced eggplant and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, making the fries crispier and removing any potential bitterness.
Step 2
While the eggplant is salting, prepare your dredging stations. In separate shallow bowls or plates, set up your tempura flour, a beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3
Gently pat the salted eggplant slices dry with a paper towel. Now it’s time to coat them! First, dredge each eggplant slice in the tempura flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, dip the floured eggplant into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press each slice firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, coating all sides. Pressing the panko on helps it adhere better for maximum crispiness.
Step 4
Heat about 1-2 inches of cooking oil in a wide pan or pot over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a tiny bit of batter into it; it should sizzle and float up immediately. Carefully add the coated eggplant slices to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5
Once golden and crispy, remove the eggplant fries from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This step is crucial for maintaining their delightful crunch.
Step 6
Your delicious crispy eggplant fries are ready! Serve them as a delightful side dish for kids or enjoy them as a satisfying snack or appetizer, perhaps with your favorite dipping sauce like ketchup or a soy-based glaze. They also make a fantastic accompaniment to a cold beverage!
