Air Fryer Hearts of Palm Sticks

Encountering a recipe for air fryer hearts of palm sticks was a first for me, but I’d previously come across air fryer versions of artichoke hearts and mozzarella sticks. So, I decided to give it a try, and the results were a delightful revelation! These sticks may resemble mozzarella sticks in appearance, but they boast a unique, tangy, and meaty texture at their core. My preferred accompaniment for these delectable treats is a marinara sauce for dipping, although they would also pair wonderfully with creamy ranch salad dressing. It’s a culinary discovery that’s both unexpected and thoroughly enjoyable.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (14 ounce) can hearts of palm, drained
• Olive oil cooking spray

Directions:

1. In a shallow bowl, combine 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to create a seasoned flour mixture. In a separate shallow bowl, beat a large egg with a fork until well combined. In a third shallow bowl, combine Italian breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for the coated hearts of palm.
3. Take each heart of palm and roll it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating. Place each coated heart of palm onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining hearts of palm.
4. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the coated hearts of palm sticks chill for 20 minutes. This helps set the coating.
5. Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
6. Once the hearts of palm sticks have chilled, remove them from the freezer. Spray each stick generously with olive oil cooking spray.
7. Place the coated hearts of palm sticks into the basket of the preheated air fryer. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip them over and continue to cook until the coating is crisp, which should take about 6 minutes more.
8. Remove the crispy hearts of palm fries from the air fryer and serve immediately.

These delightful crispy hearts of palm fries with Parmesan are ready to be enjoyed as a tasty appetizer or snack.