Step 1

Chop the eggplant either into matchsticks/thin slices (1/8 inch) or 1/8-inch coins (0.3 cm).

Step 2

Sprinkle salt on top of them and set them aside for about 15-20 minutes.

Step 3

Transfer the eggplant to a large bowl of either milk (dairy) or sparkling water (vegan) and soak for 30-60 minutes, covered.I recommend 30 minutes minimum, but you can also soak them covered in the refrigerator overnight. I've tried both ingredients and had very impressive (but almost identical) results – so use either based on what you have available.

Step 4

Drain the milk/sparkling water from the eggplant and pat the pieces dry slightly. Lightly coat with flour- shaking off any excess, so it’s a thin coating.You can optionally season the flour for more flavor – salt, pepper, and other spices or herbs could be added. You can even add sesame seeds or wheat bran into the flour.

Step 5

Then, you can cook the eggplant slices, either in the oven, an air fryer, or deep frying.Baked eggplant chips: preheat the oven to 400ºF/200ºC. Then transfer the floured eggplant chips to a parchment paper-lined baking tray sprayed with a bit of oil. Bake the eggplant chips for around 20 minutes, or until golden and crisp.Air fryer eggplant chips: arrange the eggplant chips in a single layer on the greased basket (you might have to cook them in batches), then air fry at 400ºF/200ºC for about 12-15 minutes, until golden and crisp.Deep Fry: add enough oil to fill a large, deep skillet with 1 inch of oil and heat over medium heat. To check that the oil is ready, dip a chopstick or wooden skewer into the oil – if bubbles instantly form around the wood – you're ready to go. Alternatively, use a thermometer to make sure it's at 350ºF/180ºC.Fry the eggplant in small batches until golden and crispy, turning often (2-4 minutes). Then transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6

To serve, drizzle the crispy baked eggplant with the black honey (or regular/vegan honey) and optionally a sprinkle of flaky salt. Then enjoy!

Step 7

Make ahead: you can leave the eggplant to soak in the milk/sparkling water overnight and then drain and continue with the recipe. Alternatively, you can freeze the soaked and flour-coated eggplant for between 3-4 months in an airtight container/bag. Then cook from frozen, adding extra time to whichever cooking method you choose.Storing: store any leftover air-fried/fried/baked eggplant slices in an airtight container for 2-3 days.Reheating: these crispy eggplant chips are best when fresh. However, if you've saved leftovers and want to reheat them to bring back some of their crispiness, I recommend placing them either in your oven or air fryer at around 350ºF/180ºC for 8-12 minutes until heated and crisp.