Eggplant, with its versatile nature and meaty texture, can be transformed into a culinary delight that even outshines meat dishes. This recipe for Fan-Cut Eggplant creates a visually appealing and deliciously crispy treat that’s sure to impress. The eggplants are peeled into long, thin slices, still attached at the stem, and then coated and fried to perfection. Follow this simple recipe to enjoy eggplant in its most delicious form.
Ingredients:
- 4 eggplants
- 3 liters of water
- 2 tablespoons of salt
- 3 eggs
- 2 teaspoons of cornstarch
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Preparation:
- Prepare the Eggplants:
- Start by making the fan cuts on the eggplants. Hold an eggplant at its stem and slice it lengthwise into thin strips, being careful not to cut all the way through; the slices should remain attached at the stem.
- Repeat this process with all the eggplants.
- Brine the Eggplants:
- Dissolve 2 tablespoons of salt in 3 liters of water in a large bowl.
- Submerge the fan-cut eggplants in the salty water. This helps to remove any bitterness from the eggplants and keeps them firm.
- Leave the eggplants in the brine for about 20 minutes, then drain and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, beat the 3 eggs and mix in the 2 teaspoons of cornstarch until well combined. The cornstarch helps create a crispier coating.
- Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow dish.
- Coat the Eggplants:
- Dip each eggplant fan into the egg mixture, ensuring each slice gets coated.
- Then, dredge the eggplant in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Eggplants:
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Carefully place the coated eggplants in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning carefully to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, transfer the eggplants to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the fan-cut eggplants hot as a delightful appetizer, side dish, or main course. They are delicious on their own or with a dip of your choice.
Conclusion:
This Fan-Cut Eggplant recipe is a wonderful way to showcase the humble eggplant in a form that’s not only visually stunning but also incredibly tasty. The crispy coating and tender inside make for a textural contrast that’s absolutely delightful. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious vegetarian dish, these fan-cut eggplants are sure to exceed expectations. Enjoy the rich flavors and crispy goodness of this exquisite preparation.
