Why Make This Recipe
Air fryer eggplant is a fantastic dish that brings out the natural flavors of this healthy vegetable without needing too much oil. This method saves time and makes clean-up easier, all while giving you a crispy, delicious result. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a main course for vegetarians.
How to Make Air Fryer Eggplant
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 tbsp of avocado oil
- 2 tbsp of white sugar
- 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 tbsp chili oil (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees.
- Slice your eggplant into thick slices, about half an inch thick.
- Cut slits in the middle of each slice to create openings for the sauce.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the avocado oil, white sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and chili oil if you’re using it.
- Line your air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
- Place the eggplant rounds in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Pour the sauce on top of the eggplant.
- Air fry for 15 minutes at 350 degrees. For a crispier crust, broil for an extra 2 minutes.
How to Serve Air Fryer Eggplant
You can serve air fryer eggplant as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. It also works great as a topping for salads or pasta. For a more filling meal, add it to a grain bowl with quinoa or rice, and top with your favorite sauce.
How to Store Air Fryer Eggplant
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the air fryer or a toaster oven to bring back some of that crispy texture.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Eggplant
- Use a large eggplant for more servings.
- Make sure to slice the eggplant evenly for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preference.
Variation
You can add different seasonings to the sauce like sesame oil, ginger, or even some parmesan cheese before air frying for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of eggplant?
A: Yes, you can use any variety of eggplant, such as Japanese or Chinese eggplant, but the cooking time may vary.
Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: You can also roast the eggplant in the oven at 400 degrees for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: Is this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making it suitable for vegans.
Air Fryer Eggplant
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant Use a large eggplant for more servings.
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 tbsp white sugar Adjust based on taste preference.
- 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp minced garlic About 3 cloves.
- 1 tbsp chili oil Optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees.
- Slice your eggplant into thick slices, about half an inch thick.
- Cut slits in the middle of each slice to create openings for the sauce.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the avocado oil, white sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and chili oil if you’re using it.
- Line your air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
- Place the eggplant rounds in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Pour the sauce on top of the eggplant.
Cooking
- Air fry for 15 minutes at 350 degrees.
- For a crispier crust, broil for an extra 2 minutes.