Crispy Aubergine Fritters With Smoked Mozzarella

Ingredients for Crispy Aubergine Fritters With Smoked Mozzarella

• 2 large aubergines (900g total)

• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, divided

• Olive oil (for brushing and frying)

• 2 large eggs

• 90g finely grated Parmesan cheese

• 140g plain dry breadcrumbs, divided

• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh Italian parsley

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

• 1/4 teaspoons ground black pepper

• 1 1/2 tablespoons plain flour

• 110g 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.

How to make Crispy Aubergine Fritters With Smoked Mozzarella

Preheat oven to 177°C. Cut aubergines crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Place on layers of paper towels. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt; let stand 30 minutes. Brush 2 large baking sheets with oil. Pat aubergine dry; arrange in single layer on prepared sheets. Brush lightly with oil. Bake until aubergine is tender and dry, about 1 hour. Cool slightly; chop coarsely.

Whisk 1 egg, grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, 1/4 teaspoons pepper, and 1/4 teaspoons salt in medium bowl. Stir in chopped aubergine (mixture will be soft). Spread 130g breadcrumbs on plate. Whisk 1 egg and flour in another bowl. Press and shape aubergine mixture into 1 1/4 -inch-diameter balls. Press 1 piece smoked mozzarella into centre of each ball, making sure aubergine mixture covers cheese. Dip balls, 1 at a time, into egg batter; roll in breadcrumbs to coat.

Pour enough oil into large skillet to reach depth of 1/4 inch; heat over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add balls to skillet; sauté until browned, turning often, about 4 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain. Sprinkle with salt and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.