These vegan eggplant patties offer a delightful twist on traditional vegetable patties, combining the mellow, creamy texture of eggplant with the bold flavors of vegan cheddar and fresh herbs. Perfect for those seeking a meat-free option, this dish packs a nutritious punch with its main ingredient, eggplant, known for its fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The addition of green onions and garlic enhances the savory notes, while the vegan cheddar introduces a melty richness that appeals to cheese lovers and vegans alike. Whether served as a main course, a side, or a snack, these eggplant patties are sure to impress with their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. Enjoy them on their own or pair them with a zesty sauce for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant (about 550g or 19oz), peeled and cubed
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese (about 100g or 3.5oz), grated
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or chickpea crumbs (about 96g or 3.4oz)
- Oil for frying
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Eggplant:
- Peel the eggplant and cut it into small cubes.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped green onions and sauté until they become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté until fragrant.
- Brown the Eggplant:
- Add the eggplant cubes to the skillet. Sauté the mixture until the eggplant is browned and soft, which should take about 10-12 minutes.
- Mash the Mixture:
- Transfer the cooked eggplant, garlic, and onion mixture to a large bowl.
- Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the mixture until it reaches a coarse texture.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- To the mashed eggplant, add the grated vegan cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Incorporate Crumbs:
- Stir in the breadcrumbs or chickpea crumbs. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are well incorporated into the mixture.
- Chill the Mixture:
- Transfer the bowl to the refrigerator and let it chill for 20-30 minutes. This helps the crumbs absorb moisture and makes the mixture easier to handle.
- Form Patties:
- Once chilled, remove the mixture from the refrigerator. With clean hands, form the mixture into patties, each about 1/2 inch thick.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the patties hot, perhaps with a side of green salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve these crispy, golden eggplant patties on a bed of fresh mixed greens, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze or your favorite vegan aioli. They also pair wonderfully with a robust tomato salsa or as a sandwich filler between whole-grain buns topped with sliced avocado and sprouts. For a more substantial meal, accompany them with roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad.
Nutritional Benefits:
Eggplant, the star of this recipe, is low in calories but high in dietary fiber, making it excellent for digestion and satiety. It’s also a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, thiamine, niacin, magnesium, phosphorous, copper, dietary fiber, folic acid, potassium, and manganese. The vegan cheddar provides a dose of plant-based protein and calcium, while the inclusion of green onions adds a burst of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure Consistency: When sautéing the eggplant, make sure it’s uniformly browned and tender to ensure a smooth texture in the patties.
- Chilling is Key: Do not skip chilling the mixture as it helps the patties hold together better when forming and cooking.
- Adjust the Crumbs: Depending on the moisture content of your eggplant, you may need to adjust the amount of breadcrumbs or chickpea crumbs to achieve the right consistency.
- Perfect Frying: Fry the patties in a well-oiled pan to get a crispy exterior. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and browning.
Why I Love This Recipe:
- Versatility: These patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making them perfect for any meal.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and fiber, they are a healthy option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
- Diet-Friendly: They are vegan and can be made gluten-free by using chickpea crumbs, catering to various dietary preferences.
- Comfort Food: Despite being healthy, these patties offer the comfort food vibe, satisfying cravings without guilt.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and can be prepped ahead of time, ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking for a quick, nutritious meal.
In conclusion, these vegan eggplant patties are a fantastic culinary creation that blend health, flavor, and versatility into one delicious dish. Whether you’re a committed vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these patties offer a satisfying solution that doesn’t skimp on taste. They are perfect for a variety of occasions, from a simple family dinner to a special gathering. With their rich nutritional profile and delightful texture, these eggplant patties are sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire, proving that eating healthily can also be indulgent and enjoyable.