CRISP EGGPLANT CHIPS

Crisp Eggplant Chips image

Yield Makes 6 (hors d'oeuvre) servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

6 tablespoons confectioners sugar
6 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup panko (Japanese bread crumbs)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 lb thin Asian eggplant (2 inches in diameter; about 2 medium), trimmed
About 3 cups vegetable oil
Special Equipment
an adjustable-blade slicer; a deep-fat thermometer; a large sieve

Steps:

Stir together confectioners sugar, cornstarch, panko, and salt in a wide shallow bowl. Cut eggplant crosswise into paper-thin rounds with slicer.
Fill a deep 10- to 12-inch heavy skillet (preferably cast-iron) halfway with oil and heat over moderate heat until it registers 360°F on thermometer.
Dredge one fourth of slices in cornstarch mixture, tossing until thoroughly coated and lightly pressing to help coating adhere, then gently shake in sieve to remove excess.
Fry coated slices in oil, turning and separating with a slotted spoon, until golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer eggplant chips with a wire-mesh or slotted spoon to paper towels to drain, then season lightly with salt. Coat and fry remaining slices in 3 batches in same manner, returning oil to 360°F between batches. Chips will crisp as they cool. Serve at room temperature.