Fried eggplant
It's certainly one of the most visually appealing dishes, with its egg-shaped shape and slightly darkening skin that is dusted lightly with spices, giving it an alluring flavour - not to mention, it is just as wonderful in taste. Fried eggplant is a simple dish that can be easily prepared in a matter of minutes, and therefore, it is often seen as a popular side dish served up with various meals.
Firstly, the eggplants are cut into circles and then coated with a light batter made from cornstarch, flour, and water, before being dropped into hot oil and fried until the surface turns golden brown. When done correctly, you get a crispy outer layer that contrasts brilliantly with its succulent inner, and releases a captivating aroma. I personally enjoy adding sea salt and black pepper to mine for added depth and subtle spice, although some might opt for additional seasoning or herbs.
Aside from its delicious flavour, there are also many nutritional benefits that come with fried eggplant. It is a great source of fibre, Vitamin B6, and potassium, while also being low in fat, making it an ideal food for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.
When it comes to serving up fried eggplant, there are plenty of options. For example, one can enjoy it as a snack dipped in ranch dressing, or add it to salads for a healthy boost of flavour. It is also commonly found in Middle Eastern cuisine, such as baba ganoush and Imam bayildi - a Turkish dish of braised eggplant and tomatoes.
Whichever way you choose to cook and serve your fried eggplant, you can be sure you are getting a scrumptious meal brimming with flavour.
Fried eggplant recipes
Amazing Fried eggplant recipes sourced from the web.
The origin of Fried eggplant
Ah, fried eggplant. What a deliciously sumptuous dish, crafted from the ineffable delight of slicing through the fleshy layers of the eggplant, encased in a crispy, golden-hued fried coating.
This treat is said to have originated in ancient Italy, the product of an amalgamation of culinary influences. It's believed that the eggplant was introduced to Italian cuisine by Moorish traders, bringing with it a myriad of spices that were then combined with local techniques and ingredients, resulting in the creation of such gastronomic delights as fried eggplant.
The popularity of this heavenly delight quickly spread throughout Europe, becoming a staple on tables across the continent and eventually making its way to North America, where it continues to be enjoyed today.
Though references to the fried eggplant dish can be found in the writings of early Roman cooks, it has been suggested that the fried eggplant was in fact a Muslim invention. The eggplant is thought to have been first used in Muslim kitchens as early as the 8th century, where Islamic scholar Ibn Sayyar al-Warraq wrote about dishes similar to the current day fried eggplant, describing them as "fried in oil and sprinkled with coriander and mustard seeds, until it is crisp and attractive."
Whether this dish was truly the invention of the Muslims or simply adopted from more ancient civilizations, it is clear that the fried eggplant has a long and interesting history. One that is certainly worth savoring alongside each delicious bite.
Types of Fried eggplant
It would be a gross understatement to say that fried eggplant is a beloved dish the world over. No matter where you go, there's bound to be a mouth-watering version of this delectable dish, as each region has its own unique twist on a classic. From eggplant parmigiana in Italy to the Chinese dish Lazi Ji, there's something for everyone who loves fried eggplant.
In the United States, we have several popular incarnations of this scrumptious dish. Eggplant Parmesan, Eggplant Marinara, and Fried Eggplant are the three most popular varieties. The first two are made with sliced eggplant, which is dredged in flour and then coated with beaten eggs and bread crumbs before frying. Eggplant Parmesan is topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and grated parmesan cheese, while Eggplant Marinara is served in a pool of marinara sauce. Fried Eggplant, on the other hand, is simply chopped eggplant that is sautéed in oil, garlic, and sometimes herbs.
In India, a Mediterranean delight called Baigan Bharta is common in many households. This dish consists of charred eggplant that is mashed with onions, tomatoes, spices, herbs, and sometimes even potatoes or paneer. It can be served as an appetizer or a side dish.
In Japan, Nasu Dengaku is one of the most popular eggplant dishes. The eggplant is sliced into long strips and grilled or broiled before being simmered in a sweet miso sauce. It's usually served with steamed white rice or as part of a larger meal.
In the Middle East, Muttabal is a popular eggplant dish. This is a creamy blend of grilled or roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, cumin, lemon juice, and olive oil. It's served with pita chips or warm pitas.
Whether it's an Italian classic, an Indian delicacy, or a Middle Eastern treat, fried eggplant is sure to please anyone's palate. With its diverse range of flavors and textures, this is one dish that you won't want to miss out on!