Veggie Eggplant Balls

Ingredients:

• 21 oz (600 g) eggplant: Cut into large chunks, boiled in salted water, and squeezed to remove excess moisture. The eggplant serves as the base of these delicious veggie balls, providing a tender and flavorful filling.
• Pinch of garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor that complements the eggplant perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon fresh chopped parsley: For a fresh, herbaceous note.
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan: Adds a rich, savory taste and helps to bind the ingredients together.
• 2 eggs: Acts as a binder, holding the mixture together while adding richness.
• About ¾ cup (90 g) bread crumbs: Provides structure and helps to create a crispy exterior when fried.
• Salt to taste: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Freshly ground black pepper: For a hint of spice.
• Vegetable oil for deep frying (peanut oil recommended): Ensures the eggplant balls fry up crisp and golden.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplant:
   • Start by cutting the eggplant into large chunks and boiling them in salted water until they are soft. Drain the cooked eggplant and let it cool slightly.
   • Once cooled, squeeze out as much excess water as possible to avoid a soggy mixture.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the squeezed eggplant chunks with garlic powder, chopped parsley, grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan, eggs, bread crumbs, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
   • Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape when formed into balls.
3. Form the Balls:
   • Take a small portion of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form a ball, about the size of a walnut. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. Fry the Eggplant Balls:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the eggplant balls.
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the eggplant balls into the oil, a few at a time, and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried balls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the eggplant balls hot, either on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as marinara or aioli.

Zucchini Sticks:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks: The zucchini sticks are the perfect complement to the eggplant balls, offering a crispy and fresh contrast.
• 1 cup bread crumbs: For coating the zucchini sticks and giving them a crunchy texture.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy flavor to the breading.
• 2 eggs, beaten: Used to help the bread crumbs adhere to the zucchini sticks.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season the zucchini sticks.
• Olive oil (for drizzling or frying): Depending on whether you choose to bake or fry the sticks.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.
   • Cut the zucchinis into sticks, about 4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
2. Bread the Zucchini Sticks:
   • Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with the beaten eggs, another with bread crumbs mixed with grated Parmesan, and the last one empty for placing the breaded sticks.
   • Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll it in the bread crumb mixture until evenly covered.
3. Cook the Zucchini Sticks:
   • Baking: Arrange the breaded zucchini sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
   • Frying: Alternatively, you can fry the sticks in hot oil until they are golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels before serving.
4. Serve:
   • Serve the zucchini sticks alongside the eggplant balls, with your favorite dipping sauces.

Possible Questions:

• Can I bake the eggplant balls instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the eggplant balls at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Just spray them with some cooking oil before baking to help them crisp up.
• What dipping sauces go well with this recipe? Marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or even a spicy yogurt dip would pair wonderfully with both the eggplant balls and zucchini sticks.
• Can I prepare the eggplant balls ahead of time? Absolutely! You can form the balls and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying.

Conclusion:

This Veggie Eggplant Balls and Zucchini Sticks recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or even the main event, these vegetarian delights are both nutritious and satisfying. The crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior of the eggplant balls paired with the crunchy, cheesy zucchini sticks make this a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy!