Eggplant frying is a popular dish in all over the world, especially served alongside french fries. However, there are two main problems you may encounter when frying eggplants: oil absorption and discoloration.
To overcome these issues, there are some tips and tricks you should know when frying eggplants. In this article, we will share with you all the details and tricks you need to know when making eggplant fries.
Tips to Prevent Eggplants from Absorbing Oil
Soak in Saltwater
Peel and slice the eggplants, then soak them in saltwater for a while. This process will prevent eggplants from absorbing too much oil and reduce the bitter taste. After soaking, pat dry the eggplants with paper towels before frying.
Add Vinegar
Adding a small amount of vinegar to the frying oil can also help prevent eggplants from absorbing too much oil and add flavor to the dish.
Dip in Warm Water
Immediately after frying, dip the eggplants in warm water and let them sit in a strainer. This method will help remove excess oil and reduce the oiliness of the eggplants.
Use a Weight
After slicing the eggplants, place them on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, cover with another layer of paper towels, and add a weight on top of the towels for 1-2 hours. This technique will significantly reduce the oil absorption of the eggplants.
Bake in the Oven
If you prefer less oily eggplant fries, baking is a great alternative. Slice the eggplants and lightly coat them with oil before baking in the oven. This method will produce eggplant fries that are both less oily and delicious.
Use a Non-Stick Pan
If you like grilled or roasted eggplants, using a non-stick pan is a great option. Add a tablespoon of oil to the pan, then cook both sides of the eggplant slices until they are golden brown. This method will help reduce the amount of oil that the eggplants absorb and create tasty results.
Less Oil Frying Method for Eggplant
If you love fried eggplant but hate how much oil it soaks up, there is a solution! The secret to perfectly golden, crisp eggplant slices without all the oil is using egg whites. Before frying, slice your eggplant into rounds and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for 20-30 minutes and rinse off the salt, then lightly season with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk two egg whites and brush a thin layer over the eggplant slices. Fry the slices in a non-stick pan with a high smoke point oil, like grapeseed or peanut oil. Be careful of splatters as they may occur during the first 60 seconds of frying. The result is crispy, golden brown slices that won’t leave you feeling greasy. Another tip to avoid soggy eggplant is to salt your slices before cooking to break down the cell walls and prevent excess oil absorption. You can also use small amounts of water or vegetable broth instead of oil, but be sure not to exceed the amount as your eggplant could become too moist. With these tips and tricks, you can create delicious and healthier fried eggplant with less oil. Serve hot with tahini sauce, fresh chopped parsley, and toasted pine nuts for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Fried Eggplant
Fried eggplant is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are four serving suggestions to try with your perfectly fried eggplant slices. First, try topping the slices with tomato sauce and fresh basil for a classic eggplant parmesan dish. You can also add a layer of mozzarella cheese for an extra indulgence. Second, serve the slices with a side of tzatziki sauce and chopped tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired dish. Third, top the fried eggplant slices with a dollop of hummus and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a Middle Eastern flavor. Finally, try serving the slices on a bed of mixed greens for a lighter and healthier dish. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze and some sliced cherry tomatoes to round out the flavors. No matter how you serve it, fried eggplant is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Remember to use the tips and tricks mentioned in this article to ensure perfectly crispy and delicious eggplant slices every time
Tips to Prevent Eggplants from Discoloring
To prevent eggplants from discoloring, the most effective method is to soak them in lemon and saltwater. Cut the eggplants into desired sizes, then soak them in cold water mixed with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. After soaking, you can use the eggplants for cooking, and they won’t discolor.
In addition to these tips, the quality of the eggplants and the type of oil you use also play an essential role in making delicious eggplant fries. It’s recommended to use fresh and high-quality eggplants and to choose high-quality and low-fat frying oil.
In conclusion, there are several techniques you can use to prevent eggplants from absorbing too much oil and discoloring when making eggplant fries. The taste of the eggplant fries is determined by the methods and ingredients used. We hope that this article has provided you with all the necessary details and tricks to create tasty eggplant fries
