Eggplant patties

Eggplant patties are a savoury dish combining roasted eggplant, fresh basil, and parmesan cheese, pan-fried for a crispy exterior. Ideal as a light lunch or appetizer, they offer a delicious way to enjoy vegetables.

25 Nov 2025
Cook time 8 min
Prep time 90 min

Ingredients:

1 eggplant
4 slices white bread
1 red onion
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup basil leaves
1 egg
1/2 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
2 tbsp olive oil

Eggplant patties are a delightful and nutritious dish perfect for a light lunch or as a tasty appetizer. These patties combine the rich, savory flavor of eggplant with the aromatic freshness of basil and the sharpness of parmesan cheese. Not only are they delicious, but they are also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplant:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the eggplant and pierce it several times with a fork.
- Place the eggplant on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until it becomes tender and collapses.
- Allow the eggplant to cool. Once cooled, peel off the skin and chop the flesh into small pieces.

2. Prepare the Bread:
- While the eggplant is roasting, trim the crusts off the white bread slices.
- Tear the bread into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Peel and finely chop the red onion.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

4. Mix the Ingredients:
- In the mixing bowl with the bread pieces, add the roasted eggplant, sautéed onion and garlic.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese and roughly chopped basil leaves.
- Crack the egg into the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix everything well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.

5. Form the Patties:
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. Aim for a size similar to a burger patty.
- Place the flour on a shallow plate and lightly dredge each patty in the flour, shaking off any excess.

6. Cook the Patties:
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the patties to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the patties are golden brown and crispy.

7. Serve:
- Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the eggplant patties hot, either as a main dish with a side salad or as a vegetarian burger option in a bun with your favorite toppings.

There you have it! In just a few steps, you can create these delicious and healthy eggplant patties. They are perfect on their own, served with a dipping sauce, or even as a vegetarian burger patty. Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfaction of making a nutritious meal from scratch.

Eggplant patties FAQ:

What is the baking time for the eggplant?

Roast the eggplant in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until it becomes tender and collapses.

How can I tell when the eggplant patties are done cooking?

The patties are done when they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, typically after about 3-4 minutes per side in the skillet.

Can I make substitutions for the bread in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the white bread with whole grain bread, gluten-free bread, or even breadcrumbs if needed, adjusting the quantity accordingly.

How should I store leftover eggplant patties?

Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option?

For a dairy-free option, you can use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well, keeping in mind that the flavor may vary.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure the eggplant is cooked thoroughly before mashing, as this will make it easier to form the patties.

- If the mixture is too wet and difficult to form into patties, try adding a bit more flour or bread crumbs to help bind it.

- For an extra crispy exterior, you can coat the patties with bread crumbs before frying.

- Serve the patties with a side of marinara sauce or a dollop of plain yogurt for added flavor.

- Leftover patties can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and make for a quick and easy reheated meal.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 260kcal
Protein 11g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 8g
Fat 13g

Eggplant patties