Eggplant meatballs...

Eggplant Fritters with Tomato Sauce: A Vegetable Delight

I invite you to discover a delicious and healthy recipe for eggplant fritters, perfect for a light lunch or a savory dinner. These fritters are not only tasty but also very versatile, as they can be served plain or with a fresh tomato sauce that perfectly complements their flavor. Here’s how to prepare them step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the fritters:
- 4 medium eggplants (about 800 g)
- 1 egg
- 2 slices of bread (preferably whole grain)
- 2 tablespoons of flour (plus extra for coating)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt to taste
- A handful of fresh chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

For the tomato sauce:
- 500 g tomatoes (cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste are ideal)
- 1 red onion
- A few fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the eggplants
1. Start by roasting the eggplants. You can do this either on the gas stove or in the oven. If you choose the stove, place the eggplants directly on the flame, turning them occasionally for even charring. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 200 degrees Celsius, place the eggplants on a baking tray, and roast for 30-40 minutes until the flesh is soft.
2. Once roasted, let the eggplants cool slightly before peeling them. Remove the skin and place the flesh in a large bowl. Use a fork to mash them well.

Step 2: Preparing the fritter mixture
1. Add the egg, slices of bread soaked in milk (or water if you prefer), one tablespoon of flour, olive oil, salt, parsley, and oregano to the bowl with the eggplant flesh. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. If the mixture is too soft, add a little extra flour, but be careful not to overdo it as you want a slightly moist texture.

Step 3: Forming the fritters
1. With wet hands, shape small balls or fritters from the mixture. Then, coat each fritter in flour to give them a crispy crust.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the fritters and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Preparing the tomato sauce
1. In a separate skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped red onion until it becomes translucent. This step will add a deep flavor to your sauce.
2. Cut the tomatoes in half and add them to the skillet. Sprinkle salt and stir. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. The tomatoes will release water, so there’s no need to add extra liquid.
3. Five minutes before turning off the heat, add the oregano and chopped basil to enhance the flavors.

Step 5: Serving
1. If you wish to serve the fritters with sauce, place them in a skillet and pour the tomato sauce over them. Let them simmer together for 3-4 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly.
2. Serve the fritters hot, plain or with tomato sauce, alongside a fresh green salad or a plate of rice.

Practical Tips
- Choosing eggplants: Make sure the eggplants are firm and blemish-free, as these can affect the flavor of the dish.
- Olive oil: Not only does it add flavor, but it also helps achieve a crispy crust on the fritters.
- Egg-free option: If you prefer a vegan version, you can replace the egg with 2 tablespoons of applesauce or banana puree, which will bind the mixture.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A serving of eggplant fritters contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the oil used for frying. Eggplants are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, making them excellent for digestive health and maintaining a healthy weight.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can substitute eggplants with zucchini or carrots for a different version of the fritters.
- How can I store the fritters? You can keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to regain a crispy texture.
- What can I serve the fritters with? They pair perfectly with a tomato salad, a serving of Greek yogurt, or even a side of sweet potatoes.

I hope this eggplant fritter recipe inspires you to try something new and enjoy the delicious flavors of vegetables! Enjoy your meal!