Air Fryer Crispy Eggplant Fries

Air frying has revolutionized the way we enjoy our favorite fried foods, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. By using hot air circulation, air fryers can achieve that delightful crunch without the excess oil, making it easier to indulge in snacks without the guilt.

Discover a deliciously healthy snack with these Crunchy Air Fryer Eggplant Fries! Made with simple ingredients, this easy recipe offers all the flavor and crunch of traditional fries without the extra oil. Eggplant shines as a nutritious vegetable packed with fiber and antioxidants, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect as a snack or side dish, enjoy your crispy fries with tasty dips like marinara or garlic aioli. Try this recipe now for a satisfying, wholesome treat!

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Ingredients

1 medium eggplant, sliced into fries (about 1/4 inch thick)

1 cup almond flour (or panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs (or flaxseed mixture for vegan option)

Olive oil spray

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant:

- Slice the eggplant into fry shapes, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Place the slices in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 20-30 minutes. This process helps draw out the moisture and bitterness from the eggplant.

Make the Coating:

- In one shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the coating.

- In another bowl, whisk the eggs until beaten (or prepare the flaxseed mixture by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water; let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens).

Coat the Eggplant Fries:

- Rinse the eggplant fries under cold water to remove excess salt and pat them dry with a paper towel.

- Dip each fry first in the egg mixture (or flaxseed mixture), ensuring it’s well coated, then dredge it into the almond flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere well.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Air Fry the Fries:

- Arrange the coated eggplant fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

- Lightly spray the fries with olive oil spray. This helps achieve that extra crispiness.

- Cook for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

- Once cooked, remove the fries from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing. Enjoy your healthy and crispy treat!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings