Air Fryer Eggplant Fries Recipe

Eggplant: A large vegetable cut into fry shapes, providing a hearty base for the fries.

Breadcrumbs: Used to coat the eggplant fries, adding a crunchy texture.

Almond milk: A dairy-free alternative to traditional milk, used to help the breadcrumbs stick to the eggplant.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic flavor to the breadcrumb mixture.

Paprika: Provides a mild, smoky flavor and a hint of color to the fries.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the fries.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.

For extra crispiness, try double-dipping the eggplant fries. First, dip them in almond milk and coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Then, dip them in the almond milk again and give them a second coating of the breadcrumb mixture. This will create a thicker, crunchier crust when air fried.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes add a crunchy texture and are a gluten-free alternative.

• almond milk - Substitute with soy milk: Soy milk has a similar consistency and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative.

• almond milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk is creamy and works well in coating the eggplant fries.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor to the fries.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more intense and aromatic garlic flavor.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor to the fries.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder adds a bit of heat and complexity to the seasoning.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds umami and a salty flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and a slightly different heat profile.

• Allow the eggplant fries to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled fries in an airtight container. Line the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the fries in a single layer and heat for 3-5 minutes until crispy.
• For freezing, arrange the cooled fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid.
• Transfer the frozen fries to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the fries soggy and lose their crispiness.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover eggplant fries in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method will help retain their crispy texture.

• For a quick oven method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the eggplant fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will help them regain their crispiness without drying out.

• If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave. Place the eggplant fries on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may make them a bit softer, but it’s the fastest option.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the eggplant fries in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and slightly crispy.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the eggplant fries on the toaster oven tray in a single layer. Toast for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don’t burn. This method is great for small batches.

• Air fryer: A kitchen appliance that cooks by circulating hot air around the food, perfect for making crispy eggplant fries without using much oil.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the eggplant into fry shapes.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for cutting the eggplant.

• Mixing bowl: Used to mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the breadcrumbs and almond milk.

• Tongs: Useful for dipping the eggplant fries into almond milk and then coating them with the breadcrumb mixture.

• Shaking basket: Part of the air fryer where the eggplant fries are placed in a single layer to cook evenly.

• Serving plate: For serving the hot, crispy eggplant fries with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pre-cut the eggplant: Cut the eggplant into fries ahead of time and store them in the fridge to save prep time.

Use pre-seasoned breadcrumbs: Opt for pre-seasoned breadcrumbs to skip the step of mixing spices.

Batch air frying: If your air fryer is large enough, cook multiple batches at once to save time.

Quick dip method: Use a shallow dish for the almond milk and another for the breadcrumb mixture to streamline the dipping process.

Preheat efficiently: Start preheating the air fryer while you prepare the ingredients to save time.