Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries

When it comes to comfort food that’s both healthy and irresistibly delicious, these Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries are the ultimate winner! Whether you’re looking for a plant-based snack, an appetizer to impress your guests, or a side dish to pair with your main course, this recipe will become your new go-to.

These golden slices of baked eggplant are coated in a perfectly seasoned mixture of olive oil, sesame seeds, vegan Parmesan, and spices. The optional addition of cornstarch adds an extra crispy layer that mimics the texture of fried food—without all the oil and calories. To make it even better, they’re paired with a tangy and creamy tahini dipping sauce that balances the richness of the eggplants beautifully.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries

1. Better Than Fried: These eggplants are baked, not fried, but still give you that crispy, golden-brown texture you crave. The use of olive oil and cornstarch helps to create a satisfying crunch on the outside, while the inside stays tender and creamy.
2. Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The combination of Italian seasoning, smoky paprika, and sesame seeds makes the coating irresistible. Add the creamy tahini sauce into the mix, and every bite becomes a flavor-packed treat.
3. Nutritious and Plant-Based: Eggplants are naturally low in calories and high in fiber, while tahini provides healthy fats and plant-based protein. This is a dish you can enjoy guilt-free.
4. Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, a snack, or even a side dish for Mediterranean-inspired meals. Pair them with grains, salads, or pita bread for a full meal.

How to Make Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries

How to Customize This Recipe

One of the best parts about this recipe is how versatile it is! You can adjust the seasonings to match your preferences. Want a spicier version? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coating. Prefer a sweeter dipping sauce? Add a drizzle of maple syrup to the tahini sauce for a sweet-savory balance.

You can even switch up the sauce entirely! These crispy baked eggplants taste amazing with marinara sauce, vegan ranch, or a simple garlic aioli.

What to Serve with Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries

These crispy baked eggplants pair well with a variety of dishes:

• Mediterranean Bowls: Serve them alongside roasted vegetables, hummus, and quinoa for a wholesome, filling meal.
• Salads: Add these crispy slices on top of a fresh salad for extra crunch and flavor.
• Wraps or Sandwiches: Use the eggplants as a filling for pita wraps, or layer them in a sandwich with fresh veggies and your favorite spread.

Party Appetizer: Place them on a serving platter with tahini sauce or marinara on the side for dipping. They’re guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering!

Enjoyed this Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries?

Loved these Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries? Don’t stop here—there’s a whole world of delicious, plant-based recipes waiting for you at Dr. Vegan! From easy snacks and hearty mains to nutritious sides and indulgent desserts, we’ve got something for every craving. Our blogs are packed with expert tips, creative recipe ideas, and healthy plant-based inspiration that will elevate your cooking game. Whether you’re new to vegan living or a seasoned pro, you’ll find fresh ideas to keep your meals exciting and satisfying. Explore more of our recipes today and take your plant-based journey to the next level with Dr. Vegan!

Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries

4.63 from 8 votes

These Crispy Baked Eggplant Fries are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and seasoned to perfection with a blend of spices and sesame seeds. Paired with a creamy, zesty tahini sauce, they’re a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional fries. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, these fries are bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

Servings 4

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

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Equipment

• Baking sheet
• parchment paper
• Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 small)
• Whisk or fork
• Knife and Cutting Board

Ingredients

 

US CustomaryMetric

 

1x2x3x

For the Eggplant Fries:

• 2 medium eggplants
• 6 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp cornstarch for extra crispiness
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning paprika, garlic, oregano, basil, rosemary
• ½ tsp smoked paprika optional, for smoky flavor
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Tahini Sauce:

• 3-4 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp plant-based yogurt plain and unsweetened
• ½ Juice of lemon
• ¼ tsp garlic powder minced (optional), or 1 small garlic clove
• 4 tbsp water adjust for desired consistency
• Salt to taste

Instructions

 

Prepare the Eggplant Fries:

• Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Slice the eggplants into fry-like shapes, about ½ inch thick.

Make the Coating Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, sesame seeds, vegan Parmesan (or nutritional yeast), cornstarch, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper.
• Add the eggplant fries to the bowl and toss well to coat them evenly.

Bake the Eggplant Fries:

• Arrange the coated eggplant fries on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring space between each piece.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy. [Bake]

Prepare the Tahini Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, plant-based yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder (or minced garlic), and water until smooth.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more water as needed and season with salt to taste.

Serve:

• Place the baked eggplant fries on a serving platter.
• Serve with the creamy tahini sauce on the side for dipping, or drizzle it over the fries.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 6gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 19gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 52mgPotassium: 625mgFiber: 9gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 225IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 136mgIron: 2mg

Calories: 360kcal

Cost: $12

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keyword: baked eggplant fries, Crispy Eggplant Recipe, healthy vegan fries, Mediterranean vegan snacks, tahini dipping sauce, vegan eggplant fries