Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Fries Everyone Will Love!
Introduction
Craving something crunchy, savory, and outrageously addictive—without loading up on grease? These Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Fries have you covered! They deliver that golden, irresistibly crisp texture while staying light and healthy. Perfect as a party appetizer, a lunchbox surprise, or a guilt-free late-night snack, this recipe will win over even the most devoted potato fry fan.
What Makes These Eggplant Fries a Must-Try
Air frying transforms everyday eggplant into delicious fries with a crisp coating and tender inside—no deep frying required. Each bite bursts with flavor thanks to a seasoned breadcrumb coating, while the air fryer gives you the addictive crunch you want, minus the extra oil. The straightforward ingredient list and easy prep promise delicious fries in minutes, making this a new go-to for busy weeknights or entertaining.
How to Cut and Prep Eggplant for Frying
For fries that cook evenly and hold their shape, start with a firm, fresh eggplant. Use a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for uniform sticks in seconds. Salt the cut eggplant briefly to draw out excess moisture, which ensures crispier edges once cooked.
Effortless Air Frying for Perfect Crispness
An air fryer is the secret to crunchy, golden eggplant without the mess or calories of deep frying. Simply preheat your COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, line the basket with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy cleanup, and cook your prepared eggplant in a single layer for optimal results. Spritzing the fries with a bit of oil helps intensify that crispy finish.
Flavorful Dips and Serving Ideas
Pair your eggplant fries with bold dipping sauces like marinara, spicy sriracha mayo, or a classic garlic aioli. For convenient, on-the-go enjoyment (think work lunches or picnics), pop the fries and dip into a Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl and you’re set. Serve these fries as a side for burgers, spread them on appetizer platters, or toss them over salads for an extra crunch.
Nutritional Snapshot and Serving Size
A serving of air fryer eggplant fries (about one cup) generally contains just 90–120 calories, a modest amount of healthy fiber, and almost no saturated fat. It’s a nutritious, lower-carb alternative to traditional fries, perfect for health-conscious eaters and families.
Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Fries: The Crowd-Pleaser Recap
This recipe is all about bite-size satisfaction: crispy exteriors, pillowy insides, and bold flavors—ready in about 30 minutes. Use your favorite dip, serve at any gathering, and watch them disappear.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the eggplant into fries using a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper or by hand on a Bamboo Cutting Board. Sprinkle the pieces with salt and place in a colander for 15 minutes to sweat. Pat dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs and milk together. In a separate bowl, combine panko, parmesan, Italian herbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch each of salt & pepper.
- Dip each eggplant stick first in the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently for maximum adhesion.
- Preheat your COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt to 390°F. Line the basket with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll or Air Fryer Paper Liners for easier cleanup.
- Arrange eggplant fries in a single layer in the basket (work in batches if needed). Lightly spray with olive oil using the YARRAMATE 16oz/470ml Oil Sprayer.
- Air fry for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through, until fries are golden and crispy. Serve immediately with your favorite dip.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 15 minutes salting/sweating time)
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding sweating step)
