Air Fryer Eggplant

Are you ready to elevate your culinary skills with a delightful dish that perfectly marries health and flavor? Introducing Air Fryer Eggplant—a crispy, golden, and oh-so-tasty treat that will have you falling in love with this versatile vegetable. Perfect as a side dish, an appetizer, or even a main event, air-fried eggplant is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. Let’s dive into the world of air-fried eggplant, where crispy meets creamy and savory.

The Upside of Air Fryer Eggplant

The air fryer has revolutionized how we cook, making it easier to enjoy crispy dishes without the excess oil. When it comes to eggplant, air frying is a game-changer! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll adore Air Fryer Eggplant:

• Healthier Option: Air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional frying, making it a lighter choice.
• Quick Cooking: The air fryer cooks eggplant quickly, giving you perfectly crispy results in a fraction of the time.
• Versatility: Air-fried eggplant can be served in various ways—on pasta, in sandwiches, or simply as a snack!
• Flavor Absorption: Eggplant soaks up flavors beautifully, whether you’re using spices, cheeses, or sauces.

What to Buy

Before you get started with your Air Fryer Eggplant, let’s make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s a checklist to make your shopping experience a breeze:

• 1 large globe eggplant, sliced into ½-inch-thick rounds
• Sea salt, for sprinkling
• 1 large egg*
• ¾ cup panko bread crumbs
• ¾ cup almond flour
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, pecorino cheese, or Vegan Parmesan
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• Cooked pasta
• Tomato sauce
• Cashew cream
• Fresh basil leaves and/or chopped fresh parsley
• Red pepper flakes

Must-Have Equipment

To whip up your Air Fryer Eggplant, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment:

• Air Fryer: The star of the show! Choose a model with enough capacity for your needs.
• Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for slicing your eggplant with ease.
• Baking Sheet: Useful for preparing your eggplant before it heads into the air fryer.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining your breadcrumbs, flour, and cheeses.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to a successful dish!

Build Air Fryer Eggplant Step by Step

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Air Fryer Eggplant:

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the large globe eggplant into ½-inch-thick rounds. Place the slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle sea salt over them. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one bowl, beat the large egg. In another bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, almond flour, grated cheese, sea salt, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Step 3: Bread the Eggplant

After draining the eggplant rounds, pat them dry with a paper towel. Dip each slice first into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well.

Step 4: Air Fry the Eggplant

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Drizzle lightly with extra-virgin olive oil for that golden finish.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Cook the eggplant for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the eggplant is done, remove it from the air fryer and serve it atop your favorite cooked pasta with tomato sauce, a drizzle of cashew cream, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if desired.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking to adapt this recipe for vegan or vegetarian diets, here are some easy swaps:

• Replace the large egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes).
• Use vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast instead of traditional cheese.
• Substitute almond flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.

Notes on Ingredients

Choosing the right ingredients can make a huge difference in the taste and texture of your Air Fryer Eggplant. Here are some notes:

• Look for a firm, shiny eggplant without blemishes for the best flavor.
• Sea salt is preferable for its texture and flavor, but kosher salt can work as well.
• For a nut-free version, you can substitute almond flour with oat flour or coconut flour.
• Fresh herbs like basil and parsley not only add flavor but also a beautiful presentation.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Storing and reheating your Air Fryer Eggplant is simple:

• Store leftover cooked eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, place cooled eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container once frozen.
• Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for the best results, keeping them crispy.

Air Fryer Eggplant Q&A

Can I use other types of eggplant for this recipe?

Yes! While globe eggplant is commonly used, you can also use Japanese or Italian eggplant. Just be mindful of their sizes and adjust cooking times if necessary.

How do I know when my eggplant is done cooking?

The eggplant is done when it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can check the texture by gently pressing on a slice; it should feel firm yet tender.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the breaded eggplant ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before air frying.

What sauces pair well with Air Fryer Eggplant?

Air Fryer Eggplant pairs beautifully with tomato sauce, cashew cream, tahini sauce, or even a tangy yogurt sauce. Feel free to get creative!

To make your meal even more delightful, consider serving your Air Fryer Eggplant with some of these tasty options:

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Eggplant is not just a dish; it’s an experience! With its crispy texture and savory flavor, it brings joy to your plate and warmth to your heart. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side, a main dish, or even a snack, this recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen. The air fryer not only simplifies the cooking process but also keeps the dish light and healthy. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of Air Fryer Eggplant. Happy cooking!