Crispy Eggplant Fritters with Smoked Mozzarella

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 1/4 cups plain dry breadcrumbs, divided
• 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 tablespoons all purpose flour
• 2 large eggplants (2 pounds total)
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, divided
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh Italian parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Olive oil (for brushing and frying)
• 4 ounces smoked mozzarella cheese,* cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 20 cubes)