Eggplant Fritters (The Pacific Way)

Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant, cut into 1/2 inch slices
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• salt and pepper, to taste
• olive oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 20 minutes, or until they are tender and starting to brown.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour and breadcrumbs. In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs.
4. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and then back into the flour mixture.
5. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the coated eggplant slices and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
6. Remove the fritters from the pan and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with remaining eggplant slices.
7. Serve the fritters hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Enjoy!