Fried Eggplant Sticks with Sumac & Honey

Eggplant is a true chameleon, constantly adapting to different flavours. Spices transform its bland constitution and the texture alters radically depending on whether you grill, fry or roast it. You’re always told to remove the water from eggplant before frying and many recipes advise salting to weep the juices out. Well, my advice is the exact opposite. These eggplants soak in water (my mother taught me that trick) to keep them plump while frying, resulting in supremely crisp, spiced-crust