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Baked Eggplant Fries

These baked eggplant fries transform a humble vegetable into crispy, smoky, and tender sticks that resemble classic fries. Using oven baking instead of frying, they develop a golden crust while maintaining a soft, silk-like interior, perfect for snacking or as a side dish. The process highlights the eggplant’s rich texture and smoky flavor, finished with a bright squeeze of lemon.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large eggplant firm, shiny
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoky flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 large egg or plant-based alternative
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil vibrant, smoky
  • 1 lemon lemon for squeezing fresh
  • to taste salt season lightly

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Two shallow bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Cut the eggplant into sticks about half an inch wide and three inches long, keeping them as uniform as possible for even baking.
  3. In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg until smooth. In a second bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt for the coating.
  4. Dip each eggplant stick into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Place the coated eggplant sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to ensure crispiness.
  6. Drizzle or spray the coated sticks lightly with olive oil, which helps them crisp up in the oven without making them greasy.
  7. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, turning them halfway through to promote even browning. Keep an ear out for a fragrant smoky aroma and watch for a golden crust.
  8. Once the fries are golden and crispy on the outside, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about two minutes to firm up.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fries to add a bright, tangy contrast that balances the smoky flavor.
  10. Serve the eggplant fries immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or simply enjoy them on their own for a healthy, crispy snack.

Notes

For extra crispiness, broil the fries for 1-2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Using a wire rack after baking allows excess oil to drain, keeping fries crispier. Adjust seasoning to taste with different spices or herbs for variation.