Breaded eggplant

Delicious Crispy Breaded Eggplant Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Breaded eggplants are a perfect choice for days when you want to indulge in a simple yet flavorful dish. This recipe brings a wonderful contrast between the crispy texture of the breaded eggplant and the fresh tomato juice, all complemented by a hint of freshness from the lemon juice. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 medium eggplant (approximately 300 g)
- 1 fresh egg
- 100 g flour
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (or spicy, if you prefer)
- Oil for frying
- Lemon juice, for serving
- Fresh tomatoes, for serving

About eggplants:

Eggplants are versatile and healthy vegetables, rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, potassium, and fiber. They are known for their properties that help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Whether grilled, baked, or breaded, eggplants retain their unique flavor and are appreciated in various culinary cultures.

Preparing the breaded eggplant:

1. Preparing the eggplant: Start by washing the eggplant well under a stream of cold water. Peel the skin with a sharp knife, being careful not to remove all the skin, as it helps to maintain the shape of the slices. Cut the eggplant into rounds about 1 cm thick. If you want to reduce the bitterness of the eggplant, you can sprinkle a bit of salt on the slices and let them sit for 15-20 minutes. Then, rinse them and pat them dry with a clean towel.

2. Preparing the breading mixture: In a bowl, beat the egg with a whisk or fork, adding salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. This will be the base for giving a savory flavor to the eggplant slices.

3. Dipping the eggplant in ingredients: Prepare two plates, one with flour and the other with breadcrumbs. Take each slice of eggplant, first dip it in the egg mixture, ensuring it is well coated, then pass it through the flour and finally through the breadcrumbs. Make sure each slice is evenly coated to achieve a crispy crust.

4. Frying the eggplant: In a deep skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan (about 1-2 cm, depending on the depth of the pan). Heat the oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, you can throw in a breadcrumb; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Carefully place the eggplant slices in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd it. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they become golden and crispy.

5. Finishing the dish: After the eggplants are fried, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil. They will be delicious and not too oily.

Serving the breaded eggplant:

For a pleasant contrast of flavors, serve the breaded eggplants with fresh sliced tomatoes drizzled with lemon juice. This combination adds not only a colorful appearance to the plate but also a fresh taste. If you want to make a more substantial meal, you can also add feta cheese or a garlic yogurt sauce on the side.

Variations and tips:

- You can experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as whole wheat or even with added herbs for extra flavor.
- Instead of egg, you can use a mixture of milk and flour for a vegan variation, or try a combination of breadcrumbs with grated parmesan for a richer crust.
- If you like it spicy, you can add some chili flakes to the egg mixture.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen eggplants? It is recommended to use fresh eggplants to achieve a crispy texture, but if you have frozen eggplants, make sure to thaw and dry them well before preparing.
- What other sides go well with breaded eggplants? They pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, fried potatoes or mashed potatoes, or even alongside a serving of rice.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

A serving of breaded eggplant (approximately 150 g) contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. Eggplants are low in calories, rich in antioxidants, and can help maintain a healthy weight. They also contribute to skin health and reduce inflammation in the body.

In conclusion, breaded eggplants are a quick and delicious recipe, perfect for a tasty lunch or dinner. With each bite, you will feel the crispy breadcrumb crust and the sweet flavor of the eggplant, accompanied by the freshness of the tomatoes and lemon. I encourage you to try this simple recipe and enjoy a meal full of flavor! Bon appétit!