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Fried eggplant sticks are a crispy, flavorful snack or appetizer perfect for sharing. With a crunchy breadcrumb coating and a spicy, aromatic kick from chili and masala powders, these sticks are easy to make at home and perfect as a finger food. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or party snack, these fried eggplant sticks are sure to impress with their golden crust and tender, soft interior.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy and golden on the outside, tender inside
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
- Spicy and flavorful thanks to chili and masala seasoning
- Versatile: Serve with dips, sauces, or as a side to main dishes
- Kid-friendly: Perfect finger food for family gatherings
What Are Fried Eggplant Sticks?
Fried eggplant sticks are strips of fresh eggplant coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then deep-fried until golden and crispy. They are lightly spiced to enhance flavor and make the eggplant irresistible. This recipe combines the classic crispiness of fried snacks with the soft, creamy texture of eggplant inside, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish.
Pro Tips for Success
Choose firm eggplants: This ensures the sticks hold their shape while frying.
Pat eggplants dry: Removing excess moisture helps the coating stick and prevents oil splatter.
Season the flour: Adding spices directly to the flour ensures even flavor on each stick.
Fry in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and a crispy coating.
Drain on paper towels: Helps remove excess oil for the perfect texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! For a healthier version, bake at 200°C (400°F) on a greased baking tray for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure even crispiness.
Can I make them spicy or mild?
Adjust the amount of red chili powder to suit your taste. For milder sticks, reduce or omit the chili.
What can I serve with fried eggplant sticks?
Serve with dips like yogurt sauce, spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or tomato chutney for extra flavor.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, coat the eggplant sticks and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before frying. Fry fresh for best results.
Can I freeze fried eggplant sticks?
Yes, fry them, cool completely, then freeze in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
How to Store
Store leftover fried eggplant sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or oven to restore their crispy texture.
How to Freeze
Fried eggplant sticks can be frozen for later. Arrange cooled sticks in a single layer on a tray and freeze for 1 hour. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in a preheated oven to maintain crispiness.
Ingredients
Wash and cut the eggplants into sticks. Pat dry.Whisk the eggs in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, salt, red chili powder, and meat masala powder.
Wash and cut the eggplants into sticks. Pat dry.Whisk the eggs in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, salt, red chili powder, and meat masala powder.
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Roll each eggplant stick in the seasoned flour, then dip in the egg, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated sticks in batches until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Roll each eggplant stick in the seasoned flour, then dip in the egg, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated sticks in batches until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
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Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
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