Vegan Air Fried Zucchini Fries Recipe

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for vegan air fried zucchini fries that are crispy and flavorful. This recipe is perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
• 1/4 cup water (to make a flax egg)
• 1/3 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
• 3 tablespoons almond flour
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt (to taste)
• Cooking spray or a small amount of oil (optional, for extra crispiness)

Instructions

Prepare the Flax Egg:

• In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed and water. Whisk together and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

Prep the Zucchini:

• Cut off the ends of each zucchini. Slice them lengthwise in half, then cut each half into spears or fry shapes. Aim for about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness.

Make the Breading:

• In a medium bowl, mix together the whole wheat breadcrumbs, almond flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, oregano, smoked paprika, and salt.

Coat the Zucchini:

• Set up an assembly line with the zucchini spears, the flax egg mixture, and the breadcrumb mixture. Dip each zucchini spear into the flax egg first, then coat it well with the breadcrumb mixture.

Air Frying:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the breaded zucchini spears in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping (you may need to cook in batches).
• Air fry for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

• Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or vegan ranch.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the zucchini is not too large to avoid mushiness; smaller zucchinis are preferable.
• If you want extra crispiness, lightly spray the coated zucchini with cooking spray before air frying.
• Feel free to experiment with different spices or seasoning blends based on your taste preferences.

Creative Dipping Sauces for Vegan Zucchini Fries

1. Garlic Cashew Dip: Blend soaked cashews with garlic, nutritional yeast, and plant-based milk for a creamy texture.
2. Vegan Tzatziki: Combine dairy-free yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill for a refreshing dip.
3. Guacamole: A classic avocado dip that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of zucchini fries.
4. Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: Offers a sweet and spicy flavor that complements the fries well.
5. Hummus: A versatile option; try different flavors like roasted red pepper or garlic.
6. Vegan Mayonnaise: Use it as is or mix in herbs and spices for added flavor.
7. Indian Raita: A cooling yogurt-based dip with cucumber and spices.

Alternative Vegetables for Zucchini Fries

You can definitely use other vegetables instead of zucchini for this recipe. Some great alternatives include:

• Eggplant: Cut into sticks; it has a similar texture when cooked.
• Carrots: Offer a sweeter flavor and can be cut into fry shapes.
• Sweet Potatoes: Provide a hearty alternative with a natural sweetness.
• Bell Peppers: Cut into strips for a colorful option.

Tips to Keep Zucchini Fries Crispy

1. Pat Dry: Make sure to pat the zucchini sticks dry before breading to remove excess moisture4.
2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They are coarser and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, enhancing crunchiness.
3. Air Frying Temperature: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for optimal crispiness4.
4. Avoid Overcrowding: Place fries in a single layer in the air fryer to ensure even cooking and browning.

Gluten-Free Breading Alternatives

For gluten-free options, you can substitute:

• Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free panko or regular gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Almond Flour or Chickpea Flour: These can be used as an alternative to regular flour in the breading process.
• Cornmeal: Offers a different texture and is naturally gluten-free.

Storing Leftover Zucchini Fries

To store leftover zucchini fries:

1. Cool Completely: Allow them to cool down to room temperature before storing.
2. Airtight Container: Place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture.
3. Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
4. Reheat Properly: To regain crispiness, reheat them in the air fryer or oven instead of the microwave.

Unique Herb Combinations for Zucchini Fries

1. Mediterranean Blend: Combine dried oregano, thyme, and mint for a refreshing flavor reminiscent of Mediterranean cuisine.
2. Italian Seasoning: Use a mixture of basil, parsley, and garlic powder to create an aromatic and savory profile.
3. Spicy Herb Mix: Combine chili powder, cumin, and coriander for a zesty kick.
4. Herbaceous Blend: Use fresh herbs like chives, dill, and parsley for a bright and fresh flavor.
5. Smoky Herb Mix: Combine smoked paprika with dried rosemary and garlic powder for a smoky depth.

Using an Air Fryer for Crispier Zucchini Fries

Yes, using an air fryer can significantly enhance the crispiness of zucchini fries. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior without the need for excess oil. To maximize crispiness:

• Pat Dry: Ensure the zucchini is thoroughly dried before breading to reduce moisture.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They are flakier and create a crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs24.
• Cook at High Temperature: Air fry at around 400°F (200°C) for optimal results.

Other Vegetables That Work Well for Fries

You can substitute zucchini with various vegetables that also work well in fry form:

• Eggplant: Offers a similar texture when cooked.
• Sweet Potatoes: Provide natural sweetness and a hearty bite.
• Carrots: Cut into sticks; they add a nice crunch.
• Butternut Squash: Creates a sweet and flavorful fry option.
• Bell Peppers: Cut into strips for a colorful alternative.

Making a Spicy Dipping Sauce for Zucchini Fries

To create a spicy dipping sauce:

1. Spicy Mayo: Mix vegan mayonnaise with sriracha or hot sauce to taste.
2. Chipotle Sauce: Blend chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with vegan yogurt or mayo for a smoky flavor.
3. Spicy Garlic Sauce: Combine minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
4. Hot Salsa: Use your favorite salsa with added jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.

Low-Calorie Breading Options for Zucchini Fries

For lower-calorie alternatives to traditional breading:

• Almond Flour: A great low-carb option that is also gluten-free.
• Chickpea Flour: Provides a nutty flavor and is high in protein.
• Cornmeal: Offers a crunchy texture with fewer calories than traditional breadcrumbs.
• Nutritional Yeast: Use it as a seasoning instead of breadcrumbs to add flavor without calories.

These tips and variations will help you enjoy your vegan zucchini fries even more!