Crispy Feta Eggplant Bites

If you’re on the hunt for a delectable appetizer that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds, look no further than Crispy Feta Eggplant Bites. This dish masterfully combines the crispy texture of perfectly fried eggplant with the creamy, tangy goodness of feta cheese, all elevated by a symphony of aromatic spices. Whether served as a sophisticated starter at a dinner party, a savory snack for movie night, or a delightful addition to a casual gathering, these eggplant bites are sure to be a hit.

Discover the delightful world of Crispy Feta Eggplant Bites, a must-try appetizer that combines crispy fried eggplant with creamy, tangy feta cheese. Perfect for any occasion, these bites are versatile and can be enjoyed alone, with a dip, or tossed in salads. Easy to prepare, you’ll love the unique blend of flavors and textures. Learn the preparation techniques, tips for achieving the perfect crust, and innovative filling ideas to create a dish that will impress your friends and family.

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Ingredients

1 large eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Olive oil, for frying

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant:

- Sprinkle the eggplant cubes with salt and allow them to sit in a colander for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess salt and moisture.

Make the Feta Mixture:

- In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.

Coat the Eggplant:

- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.

- Take a cube of eggplant, dip it into the flour, coating it lightly, then into the egg, and finally into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat until all cubes are coated.

Fry the Eggplant Bites:

- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated eggplant cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding.

- Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Let them drain on paper towels after frying.

Stuff with Feta:

- Once the eggplant bites are crispy, let them cool slightly. Using a small sharp knife, make a small cut in the center of each cube and gently stuff with the feta mixture.

Serve and Garnish:

- Arrange the crispy feta eggplant bites on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4