If you're looking for a delicious and healthy snack, look no further than 1 cubic inch of fried batter dipped eggplant! With only 9 calories per serving, this snack is perfect for those looking to watch their waistline.
But it's not just low in calories – eggplant is also a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. These nutrients are essential for a healthy body and can help prevent chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
In this article, we'll explore the caloric content, nutritional makeup, cooking methods, culinary uses, and health benefits of eggplant. We'll also provide tips for cubing and battering eggplant for optimal tastes and textures and even share some ideas for low-calorie meals featuring eggplant. So let's get started!
Caloric Content of Cubic Inch Fried Batter Dipped Eggplant
As mentioned earlier, 1 cubic inch of fried batter dipped eggplant contains only 9 calories. This makes it a perfect snack for those trying to lose weight or watch their caloric intake. To put this into perspective, a medium-sized banana contains around 105 calories, which is over 10 times the number of calories in a cubic inch of fried eggplant. So if you're looking for a low-calorie snack, you can't go wrong with eggplant.
The Nutritional Makeup of Eggplant
In addition to being low in calories, eggplant is also packed with nutrients. One cup of cubed eggplant (approximately 82 grams) contains: - 20 calories - 2.5 grams of fiber
How to Cook Cubic Inch Fried Batter Dipped Eggplant
To make your own cubic inch of fried batter dipped eggplant, you'll need the following ingredients: - 1 eggplant (sliced into 1-inch cubes) - 1 cup of flour
Culinary Uses for Cubic Inch Fried Batter Dipped Eggplant
While cubed fried eggplant makes a delicious snack on its own, it can also be used in a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas: - Add it to a stir-fry for a crispy and flavorful addition. - Use it as a topping for pizzas and flatbreads.
The Health Benefits of Eggplant
As mentioned earlier, eggplant is a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. But these nutrients also provide a variety of health benefits, such as: - Lowering cholesterol levels - Regulating blood sugar levels
Cubing and Battering Eggplant for Optimal Tastes and Textures
To ensure that your cubic inch of fried batter dipped eggplant is both tasty and crispy, there are a few things to keep in mind when cubing and battering the eggplant. - Use a sharp knife to slice the eggplant into 1-inch cubes. This will ensure that each piece cooks evenly. - Make sure the batter is smooth and free of lumps. This will help the batter stick to the eggplant and create a crispy coating.
Getting Your Kids to Eat Eggplant: Tips and Suggestions
If you're struggling to get your kids to eat eggplant, here are a few tips and suggestions to try: - Serve it in a fun and creative way. For example, cut the eggplant into fun shapes with cookie cutters or serve it with a dipping sauce. - Mix it with other foods that your child enjoys. For example, add eggplant to a pasta dish or mix it into a casserole.
Substituting Cubic Inch Fried Batter Dipped Eggplant in Your Favorite Recipes
If you're a fan of eggplant, you can easily substitute cubic inch fried batter dipped eggplant in a variety of recipes. Here are a few ideas: - Use it in place of fried chicken in a sandwich. - Add it to a veggie burger for a crispy and flavorful addition.
Making a Low-Calorie Meal with Cubic Inch Fried Batter Dipped Eggplant
If you're looking to make a low-calorie meal featuring cubic inch fried batter dipped eggplant, here's one idea: - Spring Roll Bowl: Cook 1 cup of quinoa according to package instructions. While the quinoa is cooking, whisk together 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar and 2 tablespoons of honey in a small bowl. Once the quinoa is cooked, divide it into 4 bowls. Top each bowl with 1 cup of mixed greens, ½ cup of shredded carrot, ½ cup of cubed pineapple, and 1 cubic inch of fried batter dipped eggplant. Drizzle with the honey vinegar dressing and enjoy!
Why Eggplant is Part Healthy and Part Tasty
Eggplant is a perfect example of a food that is both healthy and tasty. Not only is it low in calories and packed with nutrients, but it can also be prepared in a variety of delicious ways. By adding eggplant to your diet, you'll be taking a step towards a healthier lifestyle while still enjoying the taste and satisfaction of great food.
"Eggplant is an incredibly versatile and healthy food that can be enjoyed in many different ways."
FAQs About Fried Batter Dipped Eggplant calories
1. How many calories are in one cubic inch of fried batter dipped eggplant?
One cubic inch of fried batter dipped eggplant is equivalent to 9 calories.
2. Is fried batter dipped eggplant a healthy snack option?
Fried batter dipped eggplant is not considered a healthy snack option as it is high in calories and fat due to the frying process.
3. How can I make fried eggplant healthier?
Instead of deep-frying the eggplant, you can opt to bake or air-fry it as a healthier alternative. You can also use alternative breading such as whole grain flour or gluten-free flour to make it healthier.
4. What are the nutritional benefits of eggplant?
Eggplant is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as folate, potassium, and manganese. It also contains antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
5. Can I still enjoy fried batter dipped eggplant in moderation?
Yes, you can enjoy fried batter dipped eggplant in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is important to keep portion sizes in mind and pair it with healthier options such as a salad or vegetable side dish.