Air Fryer Eggplant Fries Recipe

Eggplant: The star of the dish, cut into fry-shaped pieces.

Panko breadcrumbs: These provide a light, crispy coating.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor to the fries.

Eggs: Used to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the eggplant.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.

Paprika: Provides a mild, smoky flavor and a bit of color.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the fries.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth of flavor.

Olive oil: Used for spraying to help the fries crisp up in the air fryer.

When preparing eggplant for this recipe, it's crucial to ensure that the pieces are cut evenly. This not only helps in achieving a uniform crispiness but also ensures that all the fries cook at the same rate. Additionally, after cutting the eggplant, you might want to sprinkle a bit of salt on them and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This process, known as sweating, helps to draw out excess moisture, which can prevent the fries from becoming soggy during the air frying process. Just make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before proceeding with the breading.

• eggplant - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and can be cut into fries, making it a great alternative for a different flavor profile.

• panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a similar crunch and can be used as a gluten-free option.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a good vegan alternative.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoon water per egg) work well as a binding agent and are suitable for vegan diets.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor to the fries.

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit more heat and spice, enhancing the overall flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, but use sparingly to avoid excess moisture.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to maintain the peppery taste.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for spraying.

• Allow the eggplant fries to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled fries in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to maintain their crispiness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain their crunch.
• For freezing, arrange the cooled fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen fries to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen fries directly in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until heated through and crispy.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover eggplant fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy again.

• If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the eggplant fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warmed and regain their crispiness.

• For a quick microwave option, place the eggplant fries on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may not retain the original crispiness as well as the air fryer or oven methods.

• To use a skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant fries in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are heated through and crispy. This method can help restore some of the original texture.

• Air fryer: A kitchen appliance that cooks by circulating hot air around the food, perfect for making crispy eggplant fries without deep frying.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the eggplant into fry-shaped pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the eggplant.

• Mixing bowl: Used for beating the eggs and mixing the breadcrumb coating.

• Whisk: Handy for beating the eggs until they are well combined.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring out the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper accurately.

• Measuring cups: Used for measuring the panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese.

• Tongs: Useful for dipping the eggplant fries into the beaten eggs and then into the breadcrumb mixture without making a mess.

• Olive oil spray bottle: Allows you to spray a light, even coat of olive oil on the eggplant fries before air frying.

• Serving plate: For presenting the hot, crispy eggplant fries once they are done cooking.

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer while you cut the eggplant to save time.

Use a food processor: Quickly mix the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and spices using a food processor.

Assembly line setup: Set up an assembly line with beaten eggs and breadcrumb mixture to streamline the coating process.

Single layer cooking: Arrange eggplant fries in a single layer to ensure even cooking and avoid overcrowding.

Shake halfway: Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking for uniform crispiness.