Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries

Name: Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants; 1 cup almond flour; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 eggs, beaten; Olive oil spray for baking

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love whipping up these Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries when I want a guilt-free snack that’s full of flavor. With a crunchy exterior and a soft, flavorful inside, these fries are perfect for satisfying those cravings without overindulging. I find that baking instead of frying gives them that perfect crispy texture, and the addition of spices elevates the taste, making them irresistible. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you've got a delicious treat that's great for any occasion.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:40:06.473Z

When I first decided to create these Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries, I wanted a healthy alternative to traditional fries. Testing different methods, I discovered that coating the eggplant in a blend of almond flour and breadcrumbs gave them an amazing crunch while keeping them light. Baking them at a high temperature really brings out that crispy texture that we all love!

One of my favorite tips is to let the eggplant slices sit with salt for a few minutes before cooking; this draws out excess moisture and enhances their flavor. Trust me, it makes a world of difference in the final result. These fries have become a staple snack in my household, enjoyed by both kids and adults!

        Why You'll Love These Fries
        Crispy outside with a tender inside for perfect texture
Healthy alternative to traditional fries without sacrificing flavor
Easily customizable with your choice of spices and dips

      

Understanding Eggplant Preparation

The preparation of eggplant is crucial in achieving the desired texture and flavor for this recipe. Salting the slices allows the eggplant to release excess moisture, which reduces bitterness and prevents a soggy fry. Be sure to let the slices sit for the full 15 minutes; this step improves the integrity of the fries. After rinsing, pat them thoroughly dry to remove any remaining moisture, as this will help the outer coating adhere better during baking.

When you slice the eggplant, aim for uniform thickness—about 1/4 inch—so that they cook evenly. Thicker pieces may end up soft in the middle while the outside becomes overly crispy. Conversely, if the slices are too thin, they may burn for a lack of enough structure. Keep an eye on them while baking, especially towards the end of the cooking time, to catch that perfect golden color.

Perfecting Your Breading Technique

Breading is an art, and the layers play specific roles in creating that desirable crunch. The almond flour acts as a dry baseline, while the egg provides moisture that helps the breadcrumb mixture stick. You can even mix in some Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost if you're not strictly adhering to a vegan diet. Make sure to fully coat the eggplant in each step; a thorough layer of egg ensures that the breadcrumbs stay put and form a crispy outer layer during baking.

If you find your breading not sticking well, there are a couple of handy tips. First, ensure the eggplant is dry after salting; excess moisture can cause the breading to slide off. Alternatively, you might try double-dipping the eggplant back into the egg and breadcrumbs for an extra thick crust. This can enhance the crunch factor significantly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These crispy veggie fries are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Pair them with a zesty marinara or tangy aioli for dipping, or consider a spicy sriracha mayo to add an extra kick. For a refreshing twist, a yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and dill can also complement the flavor beautifully. Not only do these dips enhance the taste experience, but they also add a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the crunchy fries.

If you want to mix things up, consider experimenting with the spices used in the breadcrumb coating. Adding a touch of cumin, cayenne pepper, or even some Italian herbs can change the profile entirely. For a health-conscious twist, replace half of the breadcrumbs with crushed nuts or seeds. This not only adds flavor but also increasing the nutritional value, making them even more guilt-free!

Ingredients

For the Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries

2 medium eggplants
1 cup almond flour
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, beaten
Olive oil spray for baking

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplants into fry-shaped pieces and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture, then rinse and pat dry.

Set Up Breading Station

In one bowl, place the almond flour. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Eggplant

Dip each eggplant slice first into the almond flour, then into the egg, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.

Bake the Fries

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the coated eggplant fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with olive oil. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve your crispy eggplant fries with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Experiment with different spices to suit your taste, like Italian seasoning or chili powder for a kick!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the crispy eggplant fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, for the best texture, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes rather than using the microwave. This will revive some of that original crispiness, ensuring they are enjoyable even on the second day.

Freezing is also an option if you're looking to meal prep. Once baked, allow the fries to cool completely before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last for up to three months, and you can bake them from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes, making them quick and easy to reheat.

Ingredient Substitutions

While the recipe calls for almond flour and breadcrumbs, you can experiment with other options based on dietary preferences. For a gluten-free version, substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or flour. If you prefer not to use almond flour, finely ground oat flour or chickpea flour can also serve as good alternatives, providing a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining a crunchy texture.

If you want to amp up the nutritional content, consider adding spices like turmeric or nutritional yeast to the almond flour to infuse additional flavor and health benefits. These add-ins can not only elevate the taste but also contribute to a vibrant color and enhanced nutritional value, making your veggie fries even more appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use regular all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour if you prefer.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these fries?

They pair well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli!

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the eggplant fries and store them in the fridge before baking. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick!