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Delicious Turkish-Style Eggplant: A Crispy, Flavorful Treat


  • Author: Annabel
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Transform simple eggplants into a crispy, savory delight with this Delicious Turkish-Style Eggplant Recipe. Featuring smoky paprika and a golden breadcrumb crust, this dish is perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a family favorite. Serve it as a side dish, snack, or appetizer—it’s a versatile treat that everyone will love.


Ingredients

  • 3 eggplants
  • 3 liters of water
  • Salt (to taste)
  • 4 eggs
  • Ground pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplants

  • Peel the eggplants and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
  • Fill a large bowl with 3 liters of water and add salt. Submerge the eggplant slices in the salted water and soak for 30 minutes to remove bitterness.

2. Drain and Dry

  • After soaking, drain the eggplants and pat them dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure the coating adheres properly.

3. Prepare the Coating

  • In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
  • In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise and mustard until smooth.
  • In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, flour, and smoked paprika.

4. Coat the Eggplant Slices

  • First, coat each eggplant slice in the mayonnaise-mustard mixture.
  • Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off.
  • Finally, coat the slice with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.

5. Heat the Oil

  • Heat enough oil in a large skillet over medium heat for shallow frying. The oil should sizzle when you drop in a breadcrumb, indicating it’s ready.

6. Fry the Eggplants

  • Carefully place the coated slices in the hot oil and fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  • Fry in batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the skillet.
  • Transfer fried slices to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

7. Serve

  • Serve the crispy eggplant slices immediately, garnished with smoked paprika or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Soak the Eggplants: Soaking in salted water removes bitterness and prevents oil absorption.
  • Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough to create a crispy coating without greasiness.
  • Reheat Tip: Use an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness when reheating leftovers.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer or Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Turkish