Crispy Eggplant Fritters with Smoked Mozzarella

Name: Crispy Eggplant Fritters with Smoked Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large eggplants (2 pounds total); 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, divided; Olive oil (for brushing and frying); 2 large eggs; 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese; 1 1/4 cups plain dry breadcrumbs, divided; 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh Italian parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 1/2 tablespoons all purpose flour; 4 ounces smoked mozzarella cheese,* cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 20 cubes); *Also called mozzarella affumicata; available at some specialty foods stores and at cheese shops.

Servings: persons

2 large eggplants (2 pounds total)
1 1/4 teaspoons salt, divided
Olive oil (for brushing and frying)
2 large eggs
3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/4 cups plain dry breadcrumbs, divided
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh Italian parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/2 tablespoons all purpose flour
4 ounces smoked mozzarella cheese,* cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 20 cubes)
*Also called mozzarella affumicata; available at some specialty foods stores and at cheese shops.

1
Preheat oven to 350F.
2
Cut eggplants crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices.
3
Place on layers of paper towels.
4
Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt; let stand 30 minutes.
5
Brush 2 large baking sheets with oil.
6
Pat eggplant dry; arrange in single layer on prepared sheets.
7
Brush lightly with oil.
8
Bake until eggplant is tender and dry, about 1 hour.
9
Cool slightly; chop coarsely.
10
Whisk 1 egg, grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in medium bowl.
11
Stir in chopped eggplant (mixture will be soft).
12
Spread 1 cup breadcrumbs on plate.
13
Whisk 1 egg and flour in another bowl.
14
Press and shape eggplant mixture into 1 1/4 -inch-diameter balls.
15
Press 1 piece smoked mozzarella into center of each ball, making sure eggplant mixture covers cheese.
16
Dip balls, 1 at a time, into egg batter; roll in breadcrumbs to coat.
17
Pour enough oil into large skillet to reach depth of 1/4 inch; heat over medium-high heat.
18
Working in batches, add balls to skillet; saute until browned, turning often, about 4 minutes.
19
Using slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain.
20
Sprinkle with salt and serve.

385

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

Saved locally in your browser — visible only to you.

How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 large eggplants (2 pounds total), 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, divided, Olive oil (for brushing and frying), 2 large eggs, and more.

Yes, Crispy Eggplant Fritters with Smoked Mozzarella falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!