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Crispy Fried Eggplant Bites

Golden, crispy eggplant bites with a warm, spiced coating, served with tender broccoli and a hint of chili heat. A quick and satisfying weeknight dish.

Total time
35 min
Servings
4
Calories
280
Protein
5g
Crispy Fried Eggplant Bites
comfortingVietnamese-inspiredveganvegetarianvegetablecrispytenderweeknight

Ingredients

  • 1 large eggplant
  • 1 head broccoli
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 whole red chili peppers

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cut the 1 large eggplant into 1-inch cubes and toss with 0.5 teaspoon salt. Let sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, mix 0.5 cup flour, 1 teaspoon paprika, 0.5 teaspoon chili powder, and remaining 0.5 teaspoon salt. Dredge the eggplant cubes in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

  3. 3

    Heat 0.5 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Fry the eggplant in batches, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  4. 4

    Cut the 1 head broccoli into florets and steam or blanch in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain well.

  5. 5

    Slice the 2 red chili peppers thinly. Serve the crispy eggplant with broccoli, garnished with the sliced chilies. Add extra salt or chili powder to taste.

Tools you’ll need

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Paper towels
  • Slotted spoon
  • Knife and cutting board

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