Crispy Fried Eggplants with Cheese and Garlic

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This recipe for Crispy Fried Eggplants with Cheese and Garlic is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The crispy breading, rich cheese, and fragrant garlic make this dish a perfect appetizer or side dish for any meal. Simple yet delicious, these eggplant slices are sure to be a hit at your dining table.

Total Preparation Time:

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggplants
  • 100 grams of flour
  • 100 grams of breadcrumbs
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 3-4 eggs
  • 80 grams of aged sheep’s cheese (or substitute with your preferred cheese)
  • Salt, pepper, oregano, paprika (for seasoning)
  • Frying oil

Directions:

1. Prepare the Eggplants:

  1. Wash the eggplants thoroughly and slice them into even rounds, about 1 cm thick.

2. Prepare the Dredging and Seasoning Stations:

  1. In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them well. Season the eggs with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika to infuse flavor right into the coating.
  2. In another bowl, combine the flour and breadcrumbs. This mixture will help create a crispy outer layer on the eggplants.

3. Bread the Eggplants:

  1. Dip each eggplant slice first into the seasoned egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
  2. Then, dredge the egg-coated slices in the flour and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breading.

4. Fry the Eggplants:

  1. Heat a generous amount of frying oil in a pan over medium heat—test the oil with a small piece of breadcrumb; it should sizzle upon contact.
  2. Carefully place the breaded eggplant slices in the hot oil. Fry them until each side is golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
  3. Once fried, transfer the eggplant slices to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

5. Add Cheese and Garlic:

  1. While the eggplants are still hot, grate the aged sheep’s cheese and mince the garlic.
  2. Sprinkle the grated cheese and minced garlic over the hot fried eggplants, allowing the heat to slightly melt the cheese and mellow the garlic.

6. Garnish and Serve:

  1. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil to add a burst of color and freshness.
  2. Serve the dish warm, allowing guests to enjoy the full flavor and crispy texture.

Tips for Making the Best Fried Eggplants:

  • Even Slices: Ensure the eggplant slices are of uniform thickness for even cooking.
  • Hot Oil: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
  • Season Well: Don’t skip seasoning the egg mixture, as it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Appetizer: Serve as a starter before a main course.
  • Side Dish: Pair with a light salad or a hearty main dish.
  • Snack: Enjoy as a crispy snack with a dipping sauce.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Eggplant: Low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
  • Garlic: Known for its medicinal properties, including boosting the immune system.
  • Cheese: Provides a good source of calcium and protein.

Storage and Reheating:

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Conclusion:

These Crispy Fried Eggplants with Cheese and Garlic are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the crispy texture of fried eggplants with the rich flavor of aged cheese and the aromatic essence of garlic. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!