If you're craving something crispy, savory, and keto-approved, this Fried Eggplant with garlic is your answer. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful dish that’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a side for any low-carb meal.
Eggplants are naturally low in carbs and high in fiber, making them an ideal ingredient for keto-friendly meals. In this recipe, eggplant rounds are pan-fried to golden perfection and finished with crushed garlic for a savory punch. The high fat content from the oil makes this dish satisfying and energy-dense—perfect for those on a ketogenic diet.
Ingredients
- 2 eggplants, rinsed and sliced into ½-inch thick circles
- 3–4 garlic cloves, crushed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup vegetable oil (use olive oil or avocado oil for healthier fat)
Prep Time
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
- Season eggplant slices on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a single layer of eggplant slices and fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with some of the crushed garlic while hot.
- Repeat with remaining eggplant slices, adding more oil between batches as needed.
- Serve hot or at room temperature as a savory keto side or snack.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 294 kcal
- Fat: 25.7 g (78%)
- Protein: 3 g (4%)
- Net Carbohydrates: 16 g (18%)
Why It Fits a Keto Diet
Eggplants are high in fiber and low in net carbs, making them suitable for low-carb eating. A 100g serving of raw eggplant contains only about 3g of net carbs. Additionally, garlic is rich in allicin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Cooking in healthy fats like olive oil or avocado oil helps keep you full and supports the high-fat requirement of the ketogenic diet. Just be mindful of portion sizes to stay within your daily carb limit.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with a spoonful of keto-friendly marinara sauce for an Italian twist.
- Pair with a fresh side salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside grilled tofu or cauliflower steaks for a complete meal.