Eggplant (Aubergine) Croquettes

These may not be the healthiest of vegetarian recipes, but they certainly are yummy!  I served mine with shells and cheese, green beans, and topped with Tabasco sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 beaten eggs
• 2 Tbsp. dried basil
• 2 Tbsp. chopped onion
• 1 minced garlic clove
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

Directions: 

1. Put eggplant cubes in a microwave safe bowl and microwave on high for 3 minutes.  Stir eggplant and microwave for another 4 minutes.
2. Drain any excess liquid and mash.
3. Stir in cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, basil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Heat oil in a large, deep frying pan and heat. Form mixture into patties and drop into the hot oil one at a time.  Cook for approximately 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Transfer cooked patties onto a paper towel lined plate. 

Recipe from: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/eggplant-croquettes/detail.aspx

Photo from: http://allrecipes.com/cook/virgi/photo.aspx?photoID=506443