Eggplant Patties

Eggplant Patties Recipe - A Delicious Italian Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Eggplant patties are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. These crispy and flavorful patties are made with mashed eggplant, breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings, then fried to perfection. They are a great way to enjoy the unique taste and texture of eggplant in a new and exciting way.

History

Eggplant patties have been a popular dish in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. The exact origins of the recipe are unclear, but eggplants have been cultivated in these regions for thousands of years, making them a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes. Eggplant patties are a delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable and are often served as a side dish or appetizer at family gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

2 medium-sized eggplants (about 1.5 lb or 680 g total), rinsed
1.5 cups plain breadcrumbs plus extra for rolling
1 tsp baking powder
1 small onion, finely chopped
0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
2 large eggs or egg substitute
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
About 0.5 cup vegetable oil for frying, or more as needed

How to prepare

1. Slit the eggplants lengthwise in two places. Place them in boiling salted water and cook until soft.
2. Drain the eggplants well. When they are cool enough to handle, remove the skins and mash the pulp.
3. Combine the pulp with 1.5 cups of breadcrumbs, baking powder, onion, cheese, parsley, eggs, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into patties or croquettes and roll them in extra breadcrumbs for a crisp coating.
4. Heat about 0.25 cup of oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the patties until golden on both sides. Using a slotted spatula, remove the patties from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining mixture until it is used up, adding more oil if needed.

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs such as mint or dill to the patties for extra flavor.
Mix in cooked quinoa or lentils for added protein and texture.
Use different cheeses such as feta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the cooked eggplant well to remove excess moisture before mashing it. This will help prevent the patties from becoming too soggy.

- Use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture and flavor in the patties.

- Fry the patties in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy on the outside.

- Serve the patties hot and fresh for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Eggplant patties can be served as a side dish with a salad or as a main course with rice or couscous. They are delicious on their own or with a dipping sauce such as tzatziki or marinara.

Cooking Techniques

Frying is the traditional method for cooking eggplant patties, but they can also be baked in the oven for a healthier option. Simply place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have egg substitute, you can use beaten eggs instead.

- You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

- Feel free to customize the seasonings and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the eggplant mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. This makes it easy to have fresh, hot patties ready to serve at a moment's notice.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the eggplant patties on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. You can also stack them on a bed of greens for a more elegant look.

Pairing Recommendations

Eggplant patties pair well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and creamy dips. They also go well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover eggplant patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of eggplant patties contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of eggplant patties contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of eggplant patties contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of eggplant patties contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Eggplant is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, folate, potassium, and manganese.

Alergens

Eggplant patties contain dairy (cheese) and gluten (breadcrumbs).

Summary

Eggplant patties are a delicious and nutritious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. They are a great way to enjoy the unique taste and texture of eggplant while also getting a good dose of essential nutrients.

Summary

Eggplant patties are a delicious and versatile dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or main course, these crispy patties are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy the unique taste and texture of eggplant in a new and exciting way with this tasty recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Eggplant Patties. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new to try. As soon as I laid my eyes on the faded index card with the handwritten title "Eggplant Patties," I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

I had always been a fan of eggplant, but I had never tried making it into patties before. The idea intrigued me, and I couldn't wait to give it a go. The recipe was simple enough, calling for just a few basic ingredients that I already had in my kitchen.

As I read through the instructions, I couldn't help but wonder where this recipe had come from. It was unlike anything I had ever seen before, with a unique combination of flavors and spices that piqued my interest. I decided then and there that I would make these Eggplant Patties and add them to my repertoire of family recipes.

I set to work in the kitchen, slicing the eggplant into thin rounds and salting them to draw out the bitterness. While the eggplant sweated, I chopped onions, garlic, and fresh herbs to add to the mix. The scent of sautéing onions filled the air, mingling with the earthy aroma of the eggplant.

Once the eggplant had softened and the onions had turned translucent, I combined everything in a large mixing bowl. I added breadcrumbs, grated cheese, and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. The mixture came together easily, forming into patties that held their shape.

I heated a skillet with a generous amount of olive oil and carefully placed the patties in the pan. They sizzled and browned beautifully, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. I flipped them over, revealing a golden crust that promised a crispy exterior and a tender interior.

As I waited for the patties to finish cooking, I thought back to the first time I had tried eggplant. It was many years ago, during a family gathering at my aunt's house. She had made a traditional Eggplant Parmesan that had left a lasting impression on me. Since then, I had experimented with eggplant in various dishes, always drawn to its versatility and ability to absorb flavors.

The patties were ready, and I plated them with a side of fresh tomato salad. I took a bite, savoring the creamy texture of the eggplant and the savory notes of the cheese and herbs. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both familiar and new.

I knew then that this recipe for Eggplant Patties would become a staple in my kitchen. It was a testament to the joy of discovery and the pleasure of sharing good food with loved ones. I made a mental note to write down the recipe on a new index card, so that future generations could enjoy this culinary gem.

As I sat down to eat my Eggplant Patties, I felt a sense of gratitude for all the recipes that had come into my life over the years. Each one had a story behind it, a memory attached to it that made it special. And now, thanks to my curiosity and love for cooking, I had a new recipe to add to my collection.

I finished my meal with a satisfied smile, knowing that this recipe for Eggplant Patties would be passed down through the generations, cherished and enjoyed by many. And as I cleaned up the kitchen, I couldn't help but wonder what other culinary delights awaited me in the future. The possibilities were endless, and I was eager to explore them all.