Custrd is out now on the App Store and Google Play — Try it free for 7 days →
Back to recipes

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

8 items — tap to check off

Missing one? Custrd suggests a swap that works.

Open the app

Instructions

  1. Step 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. Step 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. Step 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. Step 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. Step 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

Cook smarter

Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge

Custrd is an iPhone and Android app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations. Try it free for 7 days.