Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips at home! These chips are a delightful snack that combines the savory flavor of roasted garlic with the crispy texture of eggplant. The process of baking them until golden brown creates a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist. I find that the key to perfect chips is slicing the eggplant thinly and seasoning it just right. Whether enjoyed alone or with a dip, these chips are sure to impress anyone who tastes them, making them a perfect addition to any gathering.
When I first made these Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips, I was amazed at how well the flavors came together. The crispy texture of the eggplant combined with the aromatic garlic creates a surprisingly addicting snack. I remember experimenting with different seasonings, and it was the sea salt that really enhanced the overall taste and made them utterly irresistible!
One important tip I discovered is to let the sliced eggplant sit with salt for a few minutes before baking. This step helps draw out excess moisture, resulting in even crispier chips. Trust me, you won’t want to skip this step if you aim for that perfect crunch!
Why You Will Love These Chips
- Irresistibly crispy texture with a burst of garlic flavor
- Healthier snacking option without frying
- Great as a party appetizer or quick snack
Slicing the Eggplant for Crispy Results
The key to achieving that perfect crispy texture in your eggplant chips starts with how you slice the eggplant. Aim for uniform slices, about 1/8 inch thick, to ensure even cooking. If some pieces are too thick, they may remain chewy or soggy after baking, while thinner slices run the risk of burning. I recommend using a mandoline slicer for the best results, as it allows for consistent thickness and saves time.
After slicing, it's essential to sprinkle the eggplant with sea salt and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This not only draws out moisture, which helps the chips become crispy, but also reduces the eggplant's bitterness. You'll see beads of moisture forming on the slices, which is a good sign! After this step, be sure to pat the slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before applying the seasoning.
Perfecting the Seasoning Mix
The flavor of your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips heavily relies on the seasoning mix. The combination of minced garlic, olive oil, and herbs like oregano introduce layers of flavor that complement the eggplant beautifully. When preparing the mixture, ensure the garlic is finely minced so that it distributes evenly; larger pieces may burn during the baking process. You could also experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swapping oregano for Italian seasoning if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Brush the garlic mixture generously onto each slice as you prepare to bake them. This ensures that every chip has an even coating and maximizes flavor. An uneven application can lead to some chips being bland while others are too garlicky, so take your time to coat each one evenly. Don't hesitate to use a silicone brush for this job; it allows for precise coating and helps avoid over-saturating the slices.
Tips for Baking and Serving
When baking the eggplant chips, keep an eye on the color and texture. Depending on your oven, they may take anywhere from 20 to 25 minutes to reach that golden brown hue. Halfway through the baking time, it's important to flip the chips to ensure they crisp up evenly. If your oven has hot spots, rotating the baking sheet can also help achieve uniform crispiness. Remember, they are done when they are crunchy and have golden edges – if they're still soft, give them additional time.
Once out of the oven, let the chips cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet; they will continue to crisp up as they cool. These chips are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of dips such as hummus, tzatziki, or a creamy avocado dip. If you're hosting, consider arranging the chips on a platter with an array of dips to provide a colorful and inviting presentation.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make delicious Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips.
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these steps for perfectly crispy eggplant garlic chips.
Prepare the Eggplant
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Place the slices on a paper towel and sprinkle with sea salt.
Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. This will be used to coat the eggplant slices.
Coat and Arrange
Pat the eggplant slices dry after they’ve released some moisture. Brush each slice with the garlic mixture and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Chips
Bake the eggplant chips in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through baking for even cooking.
Serve
Once baked, remove the chips from the oven and let them cool slightly. Enjoy them as is or with your favorite dip!
Enjoy the crispy goodness!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding grated Parmesan cheese to the seasoning mix before applying it to the eggplant slices. This adds another layer of deliciousness without sacrificing crunch!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips can be made ahead of time and stored for future snacking. Once completely cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you notice that they soften over time, you can re-crisp them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
If you're looking to scale up this recipe, simply double or triple the ingredients. Just be sure to bake the chips in batches rather than crowding the baking sheet, as this prevents them from getting crispy. Keep an eye on the baking time for larger batches, as it may take a minute or two longer.
Variations for Flavor Adventure
Feel free to customize your Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips with different flavor combinations. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese along with the seasoning mix before baking. Alternatively, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor in a vegan-friendly option. Experimentation is encouraged; just keep an eye on the baking time to avoid burning any added ingredients.
Another fun variation is to marinate the eggplant slices in a mixture of balsamic vinegar and honey for a sweet and tangy flavor profile. This will require adjusting the amount of seasoning added later, but it can create an exciting twist on the classic chip. The goal is to maintain that perfect balance of flavors while ensuring the eggplant still crisps up nicely.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your chips don’t come out as crispy as you'd like, it may be due to overly thick slices. Make sure to stick to the recommended 1/8 inch thickness, and don’t skimp on the salting and moisture drawing process. Allowing the slices to rest and dry completely will ensure that excess moisture doesn’t lead to sogginess when baking.
Another common issue is burning the chips. If you notice they are browning too quickly, you might want to lower the oven temperature slightly or shorten the baking time. Remember that each oven is unique, so keep an eye on the chips, especially towards the end of the baking time, to catch them at the right moment for that perfect crunch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other vegetables to make chips?
Absolutely! You can use zucchini, potatoes, or even kale to create different types of chips.
→ How do I store leftover chips?
Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They may lose their crispiness but can be reheated in the oven to revive them.
→ Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, you can! Air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
→ What dips go well with these chips?
These crispy eggplant garlic chips pair well with hummus, tzatziki, or a spicy salsa for added flavor.
Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips
I absolutely love making Crispy Eggplant Garlic Chips at home! These chips are a delightful snack that combines the savory flavor of roasted garlic with the crispy texture of eggplant. The process of baking them until golden brown creates a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist. I find that the key to perfect chips is slicing the eggplant thinly and seasoning it just right. Whether enjoyed alone or with a dip, these chips are sure to impress anyone who tastes them, making them a perfect addition to any gathering.
Created by: Hayley Morton
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the eggplant into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Place the slices on a paper towel and sprinkle with sea salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. This will be used to coat the eggplant slices.
Pat the eggplant slices dry after they’ve released some moisture. Brush each slice with the garlic mixture and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the eggplant chips in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through baking for even cooking.
Once baked, remove the chips from the oven and let them cool slightly. Enjoy them as is or with your favorite dip!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding grated Parmesan cheese to the seasoning mix before applying it to the eggplant slices. This adds another layer of deliciousness without sacrificing crunch!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 3g