These Crispy Eggplant Fritters are a delightful and savory treat, perfect as an appetizer or a side dish. The fritters are made with grated eggplant, seasoned and fried to golden perfection, then paired with a tangy and creamy sauce. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any meal.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- For the Fritters:
- 1 eggplant
- 2 eggs
- 150 g (1 cup) flour
- Chopped parsley (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 shallot (or onion), finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon capers
Directions:
- Prepare the Eggplant:
- Grate 1 eggplant.
- Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Squeeze out the excess water from the eggplant with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a bowl, mix the grated eggplant with chopped parsley.
- Add 2 eggs, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Gradually add 150 g of flour, stirring until well combined.
- Add 1 teaspoon of instant yeast and mix thoroughly.
- Fry the Fritters:
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Drop spoonfuls of the eggplant mixture into the hot oil.
- Fry the fritters until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of ketchup.
- Add the finely chopped shallot and 1 teaspoon of capers.
- Mix well until combined.
- Serve:
- Serve the hot eggplant fritters with the prepared sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or side dish with a fresh salad.
- Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables or a light soup.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fritters to get a crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if needed.
- For extra crispiness, add a bit more flour if the batter seems too wet.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Parsley adds fresh flavor and is rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
- Mayonnaise provides a creamy texture, while capers add a tangy flavor.
Dietary Information:
- Contains Gluten: Includes flour.
- Contains Dairy: Mayonnaise contains dairy.
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 1mg
Storage:
- Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.
- The sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Crispy: The fritters are perfectly crispy on the outside with a soft, flavorful interior.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible.
- Versatile: Can be enjoyed as a main dish, appetizer, or side.
- Delicious Sauce: The tangy and creamy sauce complements the fritters beautifully.
Conclusion:
These Crispy Eggplant Fritters are a delicious way to enjoy eggplant with a perfect balance of crispy texture and savory flavor. Paired with a tangy sauce, they make a delightful addition to any meal. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this recipe is a great choice for both casual and special occasions. Try making these fritters today for a tasty treat!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute grated zucchini or carrots for the eggplant.
- Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the fritters in advance and reheat them in the oven before serving.
- What can I use instead of instant yeast?
- You can omit the yeast; it helps with texture but isn’t essential.
- Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?
- Yes, bake them at 200°C (392°F) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.
- What type of oil is best for frying?
- Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or any oil with a high smoke point.
- Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for the sauce?
- Yes, Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier option.
- How can I make the fritters spicier?
- Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the batter for an extra kick.
- Can I freeze these fritters?
- Yes, freeze cooked fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- Can I substitute capers in the sauce?
- Yes, you can use chopped pickles or olives as a substitute.