Crispy Fried Eggplant with Aged Sheep’s Cheese Recipe

This recipe transforms simple eggplants into a delicious, crispy delight topped with savory aged sheep’s cheese and aromatic herbs. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course, these fried eggplant slices are easy to make and packed with flavor. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients:

• 2 eggplants
• 100 grams of flour
• 100 grams of breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 3-4 eggs
• 80 grams of aged sheep’s cheese (or substitute with your preferred cheese)
• Salt, pepper, oregano, paprika (for seasoning)
• Frying oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplants:
   • Wash the eggplants thoroughly and slice them into even rounds, about 1 cm thick.
2. Prepare the Dredging and Seasoning Stations:
   • In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them well. Season the eggs with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika to infuse flavor right into the coating.
   • In another bowl, combine the flour and breadcrumbs. This mixture will help create a crispy outer layer on the eggplants.
3. Bread the Eggplants:
   • Dip each eggplant slice first into the seasoned egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
   • Then, dredge the egg-coated slices in the flour and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breading.
4. Fry the Eggplants:
   • Heat a generous amount of frying oil in a pan over medium heat—test the oil with a small piece of breadcrumb; it should sizzle upon contact.
   • Carefully place the breaded eggplant slices in the hot oil. Fry them until each side is golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
   • Once fried, transfer the eggplant slices to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Add Cheese and Garlic:
   • While the eggplants are still hot, grate the aged sheep’s cheese and mince the garlic.
   • Sprinkle the grated cheese and minced garlic over the hot fried eggplants, allowing the heat to slightly melt the cheese and mellow the garlic.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil to add a burst of color and freshness.
   • Serve the dish warm, allowing guests to enjoy the full flavor and crispy texture.

Flavor Enhancement Tips:

• Spice Infusions: To infuse deeper flavors into the eggplants, consider marinating the sliced eggplants in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and your chosen spices for an hour before breading. This step adds another layer of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Cheese Variations: While aged sheep’s cheese is suggested for its strong flavor, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as smoked gouda for a smoky flavor, or a sharp pecorino for a more intense cheesy experience.
• Herb Freshness: Incorporating a variety of fresh herbs not only as a garnish but also mixed into the breadcrumb mixture can bring a new dimension of freshness. Try adding finely chopped rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.

Alternative Cooking Methods:

• Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the breaded eggplants instead of frying them. Simply place the breaded slices on a greased baking sheet, spray or brush them lightly with oil, and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) until golden and crispy, about 15-20 minutes per side.
• Air Frying: Air frying is another great alternative to traditional frying. It requires significantly less oil and achieves a similar crispy texture. Air fry the breaded eggplant slices at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions:

• Complementary Dishes: These crispy eggplants pair wonderfully with a light, acidic side like a tomato salad or a cucumber dill salad to cut through the richness of the fried coating and cheese.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as tzatziki for a refreshing taste, spicy aioli for a kick, or a simple yogurt dip with herbs.

Presentation Tips:

• Stacking: Instead of laying the eggplant slices flat on a plate, consider stacking them slightly overlapped in a circular or spiral pattern to create an attractive and inviting presentation.
• Platter Serving: Serve on a wooden platter lined with parchment for a rustic look, garnished with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt.

Storage Advice:

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to maintain the crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the breaded, uncooked eggplant slices by placing them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these as a starter with a side of marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping.
• As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled meats or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• With Drinks: These make a great snack to accompany a cold beer or a glass of crisp white wine during a social gathering.

Enjoy crafting and savoring these crispy fried eggplant slices, a simple yet impressive dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds and add a touch of elegance to any meal.