Eggplant Patties
Eggplant patties are crispy, savory treats with a rich cheese flavor and fresh parsley, perfect as a snack or appetizer. Their golden exterior and tender interior make them appealing to vegetarians and cheese lovers alike, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a covered saucepan, cook the eggplant in boiling water until tender.
- Drain well and mash.
- Stir in the cracker crumbs, grated cheese, eggs, minced parsley, chopped green onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into 8 patties.
- Cook the patties in hot oil for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the eggplant is well-drained after boiling. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the Ritz cracker crumbs with whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed oats. You can also add spices like smoked paprika or cumin for extra flavor. If sharp cheese isn't available, any melty cheese will work well.
Serving Suggestions
These eggplant patties are delicious served with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh salad. They pair beautifully with American recipes like coleslaw or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside quinoa or rice for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover eggplant patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Patties contains roughly 344 calories, with 5g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1020mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just remember to cook them fresh when you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of egg if I want a vegan version?
You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This will help bind the patties without using eggs.
How can I make these patties spicier?
To add some heat, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the eggplant mixture. You can also serve the patties with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).