I had some major requirements for these “fries”:
- To make something I would enjoy when I was craving a fry.
- To make something that I would like to eat besides or alongside fries, which means they would have to be just as satisfying even if they aren’t the same.
- To make something I wouldn’t feel was a diet food, but just a tasty alternative with healthful ingredients.
Ladies and gents, I’ve got to tell you, this recipe tears through my requirements and then some.
Enjoy them fresh from the oven, dip them in some smoked paprika garlic mayo, they are AWESOME.
PrintAlmond Crusted Eggplant with Garlic-Paprika Aioli
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Similar to a crispy fry, this eggplant version uses crunchy almonds and a bold dipping sauce to satisfy your snacking cravings.
Ingredients
Crispy Almond Crusted Eggplant
- 1 cup almond meal
- 1 tsp coriander, ground
- 1½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium eggplant, cut into fries ¼” inch thick
Garlic Paprika Mayo
- 2 tbsp garlic mayo
- ¾ tbsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450 F. Line baking sheet with aluminum foil, lightly grease and set aside.
- In a small bowl combine almond meal, coriander, paprika and salt. In another small bowl whisk egg and olive until combined.
- Using 1 slice of eggplant at a time, dip each side in egg wash, then in almond meal mixture and place on baking sheet. Repeat with remaining eggplant, ensuring fries are ¼ inch apart on baking sheet.
- Transfer eggplant to oven and bake for 20 minutes, flipping midway.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl whisk garlic may and paprika. Set aside.
- Serve eggplant fries hot with a side of garlic mayo and a few lime slices.
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side
- Cuisine: Paleo
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of eggplant should I use for the almond crusted eggplant?
You should use medium-sized globe eggplants, as they have the right texture and flavor for this recipe.
Can I substitute the smoked paprika in the aioli with regular paprika?
While you can use regular paprika, the smoked paprika adds a unique depth of flavor that enhances the aioli, so it’s recommended to stick with smoked if possible.
How do I ensure the almond crust sticks to the eggplant slices?
Make sure to coat the eggplant slices in a light layer of flour first, then dip them in beaten eggs before pressing them into the finely chopped almonds.
