Crispy Buttermilk Oven-Fried Eggplant

Crispy Oven-Fried Eggplant Recipe

Overview:

Enjoy the delicious flavors of summer with this Crispy Oven-Fried Eggplant recipe, inspired by a Southern Living cookbook. This dish combines the crispy texture of fried eggplant with a healthier twist by baking instead of frying. Perfect for a vegetable-focused meal, this recipe is easy to prepare and yields delightful results that everyone will love.

• Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 9 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 39 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to make Crispy Oven-Fried Eggplant:

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Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 142.7
• Fat: 1.1g
• Saturated Fat: 0.3g
• Cholesterol: 1.6mg
• Sodium: 952.6mg
• Carbohydrates: 29.5g
• Fiber: 6.3g
• Sugar: 5.6g
• Protein: 5.3g

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplant:

   • Start by slicing the eggplants into rounds. Sprinkle both sides evenly with salt and place them on layers of paper towels.
   • Let the eggplant rounds stand for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
   • After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Soak in Buttermilk:

   • Place the dried eggplant rounds in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure all slices are coated.
   • Let the eggplant soak in the buttermilk for about 30 minutes. This step helps tenderize the eggplant and adds flavor.

3. Prepare the Coating:

   • In a shallow dish, combine the self-rising flour, pepper, additional salt, and ground cayenne pepper. Mix well to blend the dry ingredients.

4. Coat the Eggplant:

   • Remove the eggplant slices from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Dredge each slice in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on both sides. Shake off any excess flour.

5. Bake the Eggplant:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly coat it with cooking spray or oil.
   • Arrange the coated eggplant slices on the wire rack in a single layer.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the eggplant is golden brown and crispy.
   • If desired, you can turn the slices halfway through baking for even crispiness.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once baked to crispy perfection, remove the eggplant slices from the oven.
   • Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer. They pair wonderfully with a dipping sauce or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Success:

• Choosing Eggplants: Look for firm, smooth-skinned eggplants without blemishes for the best results.
• Draining Moisture: Salting and letting the eggplant sit helps remove bitterness and excess moisture, ensuring a crispier texture.
• Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly preheated to achieve crispy, golden-brown eggplant slices.
• Baking Technique: Using a wire rack allows hot air to circulate around the eggplant slices, promoting even cooking and crispiness.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these Crispy Oven-Fried Eggplant slices as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.
• They make a delicious addition to sandwiches or wraps, adding a crunchy texture and savory flavor.

Variations:

• Herb Infused: Add dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or basil to the flour mixture for added flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of ground cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
• Cheesy Option: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the eggplant slices before baking for a cheesy twist.

Conclusion:

With its crispy exterior and tender interior, this Crispy Oven-Fried Eggplant recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main dish component, the combination of flavors and textures will satisfy your cravings for something both comforting and wholesome. Embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of homemade fried eggplant, without the guilt of deep frying. Try this recipe today and elevate your summer dining experience with a Southern-inspired culinary delight! 🍆