Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries

Name: Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant, cut into fry shapes; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup regular breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dill (fresh or dried); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Meals

I love whipping up these Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries as a fun and healthy side dish or snack. The outside gets perfectly golden and crunchy, while the inside remains soft and flavorful. I’ve tried various methods, but what truly makes a difference is the double breading technique. This gives an extra layer of crispiness that is hard to resist. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce, these eggplant fries have become a favorite at our gatherings, and I'm sure they will be a hit at yours too!

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:51:35.532Z

When I first experimented with eggplant as a healthier alternative to traditional fries, I was pleasantly surprised by how well they held up! The texture and flavor were fantastic, and I didn’t miss the potatoes at all. I quickly learned that slicing them into thin, even pieces is key to getting that ideal fry consistency.

One of my favorite tips is to use a mixture of panko and regular breadcrumbs. The panko adds an extra crunch that elevates these veggie fries, making them irresistible. Each bite is a delightful surprise, especially when dipped in a zesty sauce!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Perfectly crispy texture that satisfies your fry cravings
Delicious flavor enhanced by seasonings and dipping sauces
A healthier alternative that doesn't skimp on taste

Mastering the Breading Technique

The double breading technique is crucial for achieving that irresistible crunch on your eggplant fries. Each piece of eggplant should be coated thoroughly in flour to create a dry surface that allows the egg to adhere. After dipping in the egg, the breadcrumb mixture forms a protective layer around the eggplant, which seals in moisture while promoting that heavenly crunch. Make sure to shake off any excess flour and egg before moving on to the breadcrumbs to prevent clumping.

For best results, consider working with small batches. This ensures that each piece gets evenly coated without overcrowding the frying pan. When frying, the oil temperature is key—aim for medium heat, as too high a temperature can burn the breadcrumbs before the eggplant is cooked through. Observing the color change to a golden brown can be a good indicator for flipping the fries.

Choosing the Right Eggplant

Selecting the right eggplant is essential for creating the best texture in your fries. Look for firm eggplants with smooth, shiny skin, and avoid any that feel soft or show signs of wrinkles. A large eggplant is ideal for uniform fries, but smaller varieties, like Japanese eggplants, can work too if you prefer them. Remember to adjust the cooking time if you choose a different variety, as smaller shapes may cook faster or require slight modifications to your breading ratios.

If you're aiming for a healthier option, consider using a less oily cooking method like baking instead of frying. To do this, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), and spread the breaded eggplant fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray them lightly with cooking oil to help them crisp up, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Customizing Your Dipping Sauce

While the Greek yogurt-based dipping sauce is tangy and refreshing, it’s easy to customize based on your flavor preferences. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeño. If you enjoy a hint of sweetness, consider mixing in a bit of honey or maple syrup to contrast with the savory notes of the eggplant fries. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the sauce even further.

Storing any leftover dipping sauce is simple—just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you have an abundance of eggplant fries, these are also fantastic served at room temperature or reheated briefly in the oven to retain crispiness, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these crispy delights:

For the Eggplant Fries

1 large eggplant, cut into fry shapes
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup regular breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For the Dipping Sauce

1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dill (fresh or dried)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare as many or as few fries as you like!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your crispy eggplant fries:

Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplant into fry-shaped pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.

Set Up Breading Stations

In three separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko and regular breadcrumbs seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Bread the Eggplant Fries

Dredge each eggplant piece first in the flour, then in the eggs, and finally coat generously with the breadcrumb mixture.

Fry the Eggplant

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the eggplant fries in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as desired.

Serve these delightful fries hot with your dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also bake these fries at 425°F (220°C) for a healthier version. Just spray with a little cooking oil before baking!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you're fortunate enough to have leftover eggplant fries, proper storage is key to maintaining their texture. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in a single layer in an airtight container. You can also layer them with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. Stored this way, they should remain good for 2-3 days in the refrigerator, although I recommend enjoying them fresh for the best crunch.

For reheating, the oven is your best friend. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and spread the fries evenly on a baking sheet. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes, keeping an eye on them to ensure they regain their crispy texture. Avoid microwave reheating, as it can make them soggy.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easy to double or even triple if you're hosting a larger gathering. Just remember that frying in batches is crucial to get each fry to the right level of crunch without overcrowding your frying pan. If you have a large enough fryer, you can increase the quantity while keeping an eye on the temperature to ensure even cooking throughout.

When scaling up, also consider adjusting your dipping sauce proportionately. Making more of the sauce can be a great idea since guests often appreciate having extra to dip into. Adjust seasoning to taste, as larger quantities can sometimes require more than you think.

Variations for Eggplant Fries

Feel free to experiment with different breadcrumb types for various textures. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to coat the eggplant. Nutritional yeast can also be added to the breading mixture for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This not only adds depth but also enhances the nutritional profile of your dish.

For a twist on flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture. This not only enhances the overall taste of the eggplant fries but could also lead to unique flavor combinations that can be introduced to your gatherings, making each occasion a little different and personalized.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! You can bake them at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ What can I use instead of eggplant?

Zucchini or sweet potatoes can also be used for a similar taste and texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make the dipping sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dipping sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.