This easy and budget-friendly recipe for grated eggplant fritters is perfect for a quick meal or snack. With just a few basic ingredients, you can transform eggplants into a delicious dish that everyone will love. These fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a savory flavor enhanced by cheese and seasonings. Let’s get started!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 eggplants: The star of the dish, these provide a soft, mild base.
• 1 onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Half a pepper: For a bit of color and mild heat.
• Cheese to taste: Choose your favorite cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or feta to add richness.
• 2 eggs: Helps to bind the ingredients together.
• 3 tablespoons of flour: Provides structure to the fritters, making them hold their shape.
• Salt and pepper: To season the mixture.
• Oil: For frying, you can use vegetable or olive oil.

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare the Eggplants:

• Start by washing and peeling the eggplants. Grate them using a coarse grater. Place the grated eggplant in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
• After 10 minutes, squeeze the grated eggplant to remove the liquid. This step is important to prevent the fritters from becoming too soggy.

2. Chop the Vegetables:

• Finely chop 1 onion and half a pepper. The onion will add sweetness and flavor, while the pepper will give a slight bite.

3. Mix the Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, combine the grated eggplant, chopped onion, and pepper. Add cheese to taste (about ½ cup of grated cheese works well, but you can adjust depending on how cheesy you like it).
• Crack 2 eggs into the mixture and stir well to combine.
• Add 3 tablespoons of flour, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Form the Fritters:

• Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan for frying.
• Using a spoon, scoop out portions of the eggplant mixture and shape them into small patties or fritters. Flatten them slightly so they cook evenly.

5. Fry the Fritters:

• Place the fritters in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil.

6. Serve:

• Serve the fritters hot with a dipping sauce like sour cream, yogurt, or a simple tomato salsa. They also make a great side dish for any meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 150-180 (depending on the type of cheese and amount of oil used)
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 250-300mg (adjust based on cheese and seasoning)

Eggplants are naturally low in calories and provide dietary fiber, making this dish a relatively light option. The cheese and eggs add protein, while the oil provides healthy fats.

FAQs:

Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?

• Yes, you can bake the fritters for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush them with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What kind of cheese works best?

• Mozzarella, cheddar, or feta are great options, but you can experiment with your favorite cheese. For a stronger flavor, you could try Parmesan or Gouda.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

• Absolutely! You can add grated carrots, zucchini, or even chopped spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.