Fried eggplants with garlic

Fried eggplants with garlic - a simple yet extraordinary appetizer that will bring a burst of flavor to every meal. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a party with friends. Eggplants, known for their velvety texture and subtle taste, pair perfectly with the intense aroma of garlic, creating a symphony of flavors that delights the taste buds.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 elongated eggplants
- 100 ml frying oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Garlic, to taste (about 3-4 cloves)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the eggplant: Start by washing the eggplants thoroughly under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities, as eggplants grow close to the ground. After washing, cut the eggplants into strips about 1 cm thick. This thickness is ideal for achieving even frying and a pleasant texture.

2. Removing bitterness: An essential step in preparing the eggplant is to sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for 20 minutes. This process will help draw out excess water and bitterness, resulting in a more pleasant taste. After 20 minutes, wipe the eggplants with a clean towel to remove the salt and extracted water.

3. Seasoning: Now that the eggplants are ready, it’s time to season them. Sprinkle a little freshly ground pepper to add extra flavor.

4. Frying: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. It is important for the oil to be hot before adding the eggplants; otherwise, they will absorb oil and not fry properly. Add the eggplants to the skillet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy.

5. Draining excess oil: Once the eggplants are fried, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. This step is essential for keeping the dish light and digestible.

6. Preparing the garlic sauce: While the eggplants are draining, you can prepare the garlic sauce. Crush 3-4 cloves of garlic with a pinch of salt, then add a little olive oil and water to create a smooth paste. This sauce will add an intense note to the fried eggplants.

7. Serving: The fried eggplants are served warm, alongside the garlic sauce. You can also add other fried vegetables, such as peppers or zucchini, for a colorful and delicious side dish.

Useful tips for a perfect result:
- Choose fresh eggplants with smooth skin and no spots. Smaller eggplants are generally less bitter.
- If you want to avoid frying, a healthy alternative is to bake the eggplants in the oven. Oil and spices can be applied before baking, and the cooking time will be about 25-30 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius.
- Experiment with spices! You can add sweet or hot paprika for a more intense flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen eggplants? It is not recommended, as the texture will change significantly after thawing.
- How can I make eggplants less bitter? Besides the salt applied before cooking, you can try soaking them in cold water for 30 minutes.
- What other sauces can I use? Besides the garlic sauce, a yogurt sauce with mint or tahini can be excellent options.

Possible variations:
- Instead of garlic, you can add herbs like basil or oregano for a Mediterranean touch.
- Try adding grated parmesan on top of the eggplants right after frying for a delicious taste.

This recipe for fried eggplants with garlic is not just a simple snack but also a way to explore the flavors of vegetables. Regardless of the occasion, this appetizer will bring a touch of elegance and flavor to your table. Take advantage of the fresh vegetable season and enjoy every bite!