Cajun-Spiced Eggplant Fritters
These Cajun-Spiced Eggplant Fritters are a delightful and quick vegetarian option, perfect for any meal. Made from tender eggplant mixed with savory herbs and spices, these patties are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They can be served with a flavorful Tomato Mushroom Gravy and a fresh garden salad for a wholesome dinner. For a twist, try adding crushed crispy bacon or substituting with Provolone cheese for a creamy texture. Enjoy a taste of Louisiana right in your home with these easy-to-make fritters!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
eggplant
1 (medium, peeled and cubed)
Ritz cracker crumbs
1 1/4 cups (none)
shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/4 cups (none)
eggs
2 (beaten)
parsley flakes
2 tablespoons (none)
dried onion flakes
2 tablespoons (none)
minced fresh garlic
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
lemon juice
1 teaspoon (none)
shortening or olive oil
2 tablespoons (for frying)
Instructions
1
In a 2-quart saucepan, bring water to a boil.
2
While the water is heating, peel and cube the eggplant into small pieces.
3
Once the water is boiling, carefully add the cubed eggplant. Cover and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until tender.
4
While the eggplant is cooking, in a large mixing bowl, combine Ritz cracker crumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, parsley flakes, dried onion flakes, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed.
5
Once the eggplant is cooked, drain and mash it with a fork or electric mixer until smooth. Incorporate this mashed eggplant into the bowl with the other ingredients and mix until fully combined.
6
In a large frying pan, heat the shortening or olive oil over medium heat.
7
Form the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, pressing firmly to ensure they hold together.
8
Carefully place the patties in the hot oil and fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
9
Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with Tomato Mushroom Gravy and a salad.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cajun-Spiced Eggplant Fritters?
They are a savory vegetarian dish made from mashed eggplant mixed with Ritz cracker crumbs, cheese, and Cajun spices, then fried until crispy.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 11 specific ingredients required for this recipe.
How long should I boil the eggplant?
The cubed eggplant should be boiled for approximately 8 to 10 minutes or until it becomes tender.
What kind of crackers are used for the crumbs?
The recipe calls for 1 1/4 cups of Ritz cracker crumbs.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while the recipe uses cheddar, you can substitute it with Provolone cheese for a creamier texture.
Is the eggplant peeled for this recipe?
Yes, the instructions specify that the eggplant should be peeled and cubed before boiling.
How many eggs are needed to bind the mixture?
Two beaten eggs are used in the mixture.
What type of oil is recommended for frying?
You can use either shortening or olive oil for frying the fritters.
How do I mash the eggplant once it is cooked?
You can mash the drained eggplant until smooth using either a fork or an electric mixer.
How many patties does the mixture create?
The recipe should be formed into 8 equal-sized patties.
How long do the patties need to fry on each side?
Fry the patties for about 4 to 5 minutes per side.
What texture should the fritters have?
They are intended to be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Are these fritters considered vegetarian?
Yes, the primary recipe is vegetarian.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, a suggested variation is to add crushed crispy bacon to the mixture.
What should I serve with Cajun-Spiced Eggplant Fritters?
They are best served with Tomato Mushroom Gravy and a fresh garden salad.
How much salt is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt.
Does the recipe use fresh or powdered garlic?
It uses 1 teaspoon of minced fresh garlic.
What is the purpose of adding lemon juice?
One teaspoon of lemon juice is added to enhance the flavor of the mixture.
Should the fritters be drained after cooking?
Yes, once removed from the pan, they should be drained on paper towels.
How do I ensure the patties do not fall apart?
Press the mixture firmly when forming the patties to ensure they hold together.
How much pepper is required?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
Can I use fresh onion instead of flakes?
The recipe specifies 2 tablespoons of dried onion flakes, though fresh could be substituted if adjusted.
What size saucepan is needed for boiling?
A 2-quart saucepan is recommended for boiling the eggplant.
What heat setting should be used for frying?
The oil or shortening should be heated over medium heat.
Are these fritters spicy?
They are Cajun-spiced with savory herbs, though the heat level is relatively mild based on the ingredients.
How much parsley is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of parsley flakes.
Can these be served as an appetizer?
Yes, they are listed as suitable for both side dishes and appetizers.
What is the total preparation and cooking time?
It takes about 10 minutes to boil the eggplant and another 10 minutes of frying time, totaling approximately 20-25 minutes plus prep.
What is the color of the finished fritters?
The fritters should be fried until they are golden brown.