These Albondigas De Berenjena eggplant meatballs are a delightful Spanish twist on a classic dish. They are flavorful, satisfying, and perfect for adding a touch of Mediterranean flair to your dinner table. These meatballs are a great option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals or for anyone simply looking to try something new. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and see how easy it is to make these flavorful eggplant meatballs.
**Albondigas De Berenjena Eggplant Meatballs**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 medium eggplant
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– Olive oil for frying
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Wash the eggplant and cut it into small cubes. Place the cubes on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender.
3. Once the eggplant is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Transfer the eggplant cubes to a large mixing bowl and mash them with a fork until you achieve a smooth consistency.
4. To the mashed eggplant, add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too sticky, you can wet your hands slightly to help with the shaping process.
6. Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook the meatballs for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Once all the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
8. Serve the Albondigas De Berenjena eggplant meatballs hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. These meatballs are delicious on their own as an appetizer, served over pasta or rice, or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Enjoy these flavorful eggplant meatballs as a delightful and nutritious addition to your menu. They are versatile, easy to make, and sure to impress your family and friends with their unique Spanish-inspired flavors. Let these Albondigas De Berenjena meatballs transport you to the sunny streets of Spain with every delicious bite.
