Tasty Fried Eggplant Balls

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon of sea salt
• 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup of flour
• 1/2 cup of bread crumbs
• 4 eggs, beaten
• Oil for frying

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Slice the eggplant into 1/2 inch thick slices. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the cooked eggplant, Parmesan cheese, parsley, sea salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Using a spoon, scoop the eggplant mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on a plate.
6. Place the flour in a shallow bowl. Place the beaten eggs in another shallow bowl. Place the bread crumbs in a third shallow bowl.
7. Dip each eggplant ball into the flour, then the eggs, and then the bread crumbs. Place the breaded balls on a plate.
8. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the eggplant balls and fry for about 3 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Remove the eggplant balls from the oil and place on a paper towel lined plate to remove excess oil.
10. Serve the eggplant balls warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Interesting Facts

• Eggplant is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and Potassium.
• Eggplant is a member of the nightshade family, just like tomatoes and potatoes.
• Parmesan cheese is made from unpasteurized cow's milk and has a distinct flavor.