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#### **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Preheating ensures that the chips will bake evenly and become crispy.
2. **Prepare the Eggplant:**
Wash and peel the eggplant, removing the skin if desired. The skin of the eggplant can add a bit of bitterness, but it is completely optional whether you peel it or not. Once peeled, slice the eggplant into thin rounds, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier the chips will be.
3. **Salt the Eggplant:**
Lay the eggplant slices in a single layer on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Sprinkle the slices lightly with salt and let them sit for about 20-30 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture from the eggplant, which helps it become crispier when baked. After the eggplant has rested, pat the slices dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture or salt.
4. **Prepare the Coating:**
In a shallow dish, combine the **breadcrumbs**, **Parmesan cheese**, **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix everything together well to ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the seasoning.
5. **Egg Wash:**
In another shallow dish, beat the **eggs** to create an egg wash. This will help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the eggplant slices, creating a crispy coating when baked.
6. **Coat the Eggplant:**
Dip each eggplant slice first into the egg wash, ensuring that both sides are coated. Then, dredge the eggplant slice in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure an even coating of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
7. **Arrange the Eggplant Slices on a Baking Sheet:**
Lightly grease a baking sheet with **olive oil** or use a cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated eggplant slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Be sure to leave space between each slice so that they can bake evenly and become crispy.
8. **Bake the Eggplant Chips:**
Bake the eggplant chips in the preheated oven for about **20-25 minutes**, flipping the slices halfway through the baking time. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the cooking time, as the chips can burn quickly. You want them to be golden brown and crispy on the edges.
9. **Garnish and Serve:**
Once baked, remove the eggplant chips from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. For an extra burst of flavor, you can garnish the chips with a bit of freshly chopped basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Serve immediately for the crispiest texture, and enjoy!
### **Health Benefits of Crispy Baked Eggplant Chips**
Eggplant may not always be front and center in the world of snacks, but it’s packed with incredible health benefits that make it a great addition to your diet. Here are a few reasons why you should feel good about snacking on these crispy eggplant chips:
#### **1. High in Fiber:**
Eggplants are a great source of dietary fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion. Fiber aids in the movement of food through your digestive system, which can prevent constipation and help regulate blood sugar levels. Consuming high-fiber foods like eggplant can also keep you feeling full for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
#### **2. Rich in Antioxidants:**
Eggplants contain powerful antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which have been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. These antioxidants protect the body from harmful free radicals, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
#### **3. Low in Carbs and Calories:**
Eggplants are naturally low in both carbohydrates and calories, making them an excellent choice for anyone following a low-carb or calorie-restricted diet. Baked eggplant chips are a perfect snack for those looking to satisfy a crunchy craving without adding excess calories or carbohydrates to their diet.
#### **4. Supports Heart Health:**
The antioxidants and fiber found in eggplant can support heart health by helping to reduce cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and improve blood circulation. Studies suggest that eating more eggplant may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
#### **5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:**
Eggplants contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic inflammation-related conditions such as arthritis. This makes eggplant a great addition to a diet that promotes overall health and wellness.
### **Tips for Perfect Crispy Eggplant Chips**
To ensure your crispy eggplant chips turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
1. **Slice Evenly:** Try to slice the eggplant into uniform thicknesses so that they cook evenly. If some slices are thicker than others, they may not crisp up properly.
2. **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer, making sure there’s space between each piece. Overcrowding can cause the chips to steam rather than bake, resulting in a soggy texture.
3. **Use Fresh Basil:** Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that really elevates the dish. Avoid using dried basil for this recipe, as it won’t have the same fragrant, vibrant flavor.
4. **Storage:** If you happen to have leftovers, store the eggplant chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They may lose some of their crispness, so it’s best to enjoy them right after baking.
### **Conclusion: A Healthy, Flavorful Snack**
Crispy Baked Eggplant Chips with Basil and Parmesan Cheese are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional chips and snacks. Whether you’re looking for a light snack to munch on between meals, a healthy appetizer for your next gathering, or a crunchy side dish for dinner, these eggplant chips are sure to hit the spot.
Not only are they simple to prepare and full of flavor, but they also offer a wealth of health benefits, including antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients. The combination of crispy eggplant, savory Parmesan, fragrant basil, and garlic makes this recipe a winner every time.
So, the next time you’re craving a snack, try these crispy baked eggplant chips—you’ll be amazed at how satisfying and flavorful they are, all while being a healthy option that fits into your nutritious lifestyle. Enjoy!
