Roasting Eggplant In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a great way to cook eggplant, a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. From salads to dips and main dishes, eggplant is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Cooking eggplant in an air fryer is not only easy but also results in a crispy texture and golden brown colour. With just a few simple steps, anyone can prepare delicious air-fried eggplant at home.

How to prepare the eggplant for roasting

Preparing eggplant for roasting in an air fryer is simple and requires only a few steps. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Firstly, select fresh, firm eggplants for the best results. Look for eggplants with smooth, shiny skin and avoid any with blemishes or soft spots. You can use Italian eggplant, which is the most common variety, or opt for Japanese eggplant, which is thinner and longer.

Next, wash and dry the eggplants. Cut them into your desired shape. You can cut them into halves, cubes, rounds, or slices. For even cooking, it is important to cut the eggplant into evenly sized pieces. If you are slicing the eggplant, aim for ½-inch thick slices.

After cutting, sprinkle salt on both sides of the eggplant pieces and let them rest for about 30 minutes. This step helps to remove any bitterness and excess moisture from the eggplant. You can then use paper towels to pat the surface of the eggplant dry, absorbing any remaining moisture.

Now it's time to season the eggplant. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil or avocado oil. You can also use other types of oil with a high smoke point. Drizzle or brush the oil on the eggplant, ensuring that all pieces are coated. Then, sprinkle your desired seasonings on the eggplant. You can use Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, chili flakes, or any other spices you prefer.

Once the eggplant is prepared, you can place it in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to between 375-400°F. Arrange the eggplant pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap or crowd the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the eggplant in batches.

Now, you are ready to roast the eggplant in the air fryer! Cook at the preheated temperature for about 12-20 minutes, flipping the eggplant halfway through the cooking process. The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the thickness of the eggplant slices, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook.

Finally, once the eggplant is golden brown and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, remove them from the air fryer and serve! You can enjoy air-fried eggplant as a side dish, appetizer, or use it in salads, pasta dishes, or dips.

The best oil to use for roasting eggplant

When roasting eggplant in an air fryer, it is important to use an oil with a high smoke point. This is because the air fryer cooks at high temperatures, and using an oil with a low smoke point can lead to burning and a bitter taste.

Some of the best oils to use for roasting eggplant in an air fryer include:

• Avocado oil—Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavour that won't overpower the taste of the eggplant. It also has a healthy fat profile.
• Olive oil—Extra virgin olive oil is a good choice for roasting eggplant as it has a high smoke point and adds a delicious flavour to the dish.
• Vegetable oil—A good, neutral-flavoured option with a high smoke point.

When using any oil in an air fryer, it is important to remember that a little goes a long way. Using too much oil can result in greasy eggplant, so it is best to use a light coating or spray.

How to season the eggplant

To season the eggplant, you can use a variety of seasonings and spices to elevate its flavour. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season eggplant for air frying:

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Before seasoning the eggplant, it is important to wash it thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Cut off the stem using a sharp knife, and then slice the eggplant into your desired shape and size. You can cut it into rounds that are about 1/2-inch thick, or lengthwise into planks of similar thickness. This ensures even cooking and a desirable texture.

Step 2: Optional Salting (For Bitterness and Moisture Control)

If you are using eggplant that is out of season or want to reduce its bitterness, you can optionally sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices. Let the salted eggplant rest for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After this, rinse off the salt and pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Drizzle with Oil

Drizzle a small amount of oil over the eggplant slices. You can use avocado oil or olive oil, which have high smoke points and are recommended for air frying. Use a pastry brush to evenly coat each slice with oil, but be careful not to drench them as this can lead to excess oiliness.

Step 4: Season Generously

Now it's time to add your favourite seasonings! You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with various seasonings. Here are some popular options:

• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Red pepper flakes
• Black pepper
• Thyme
• Oregano
• Basil
• Parsley
• Rosemary

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of spices and herbs to find your perfect blend.

Step 5: Mix and Coat the Eggplant

After adding your chosen seasonings, gently mix and toss the eggplant slices to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasonings. You can use your hands or a large mixing bowl for this step.

Step 6: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Place the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow proper air circulation and even cooking. If needed, cook the eggplant in batches to ensure each slice gets crispy.

Step 7: Air Fry to Perfection

Set your air fryer to the recommended temperature and time, typically around 375-400°F for about 12-20 minutes. Insert the basket into the air fryer, and remember to flip the slices halfway through the cooking process for even browning. Keep a close eye on the eggplant towards the end, checking for the desired level of doneness.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the eggplant slices are golden brown and crispy on the outside, tender and silky on the inside, they are ready to be served! You can enjoy them as a delicious and healthy snack on their own, or pair them with dips like marinara sauce, Greek yogurt dip, or tahini sauce. They also go well in sandwiches, wraps, pasta dishes, and grain bowls.

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and serving suggestions to find your favourite ways to enjoy air-fried eggplant!

How long to roast eggplant in an air fryer

Roasting eggplant in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy and delicious vegetable. The cooking time will depend on the type of air fryer you have, the thickness of your eggplant slices, and how full your air fryer basket is.

Preparation

Before cooking, rinse the eggplant under cold water to remove any dirt. You can peel the eggplant, or leave the skin on for extra texture. Cut the eggplant into even-sized slices or cubes, about 1/2-inch thick. Place the slices on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with salt on both sides. This will help to remove any bitterness and excess moisture. Let the salted eggplant rest for 15-30 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels.

Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with oil, including olive oil, avocado oil, or another high smoke point oil. You can also use flavored oils, such as garlic-infused olive oil or chili oil, for an extra kick of flavor. Sprinkle the eggplant with your desired seasonings and spices. Suggested seasonings include Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, basil, black pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.

Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to between 370-400°F. Place the eggplant slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don't overlap or crowd the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the eggplant in batches.

Air fry the eggplant for 10-20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The eggplant is done when it is soft, golden brown, and crispy. Be careful not to overcook the eggplant, as it can become dry and tough.

Serving

Air-fried eggplant can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or added to salads, casseroles, or stews. It goes well with a variety of proteins, especially chicken and seafood dishes. For a Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve it with dishes such as Greek Chickpea Salad, Musabaha (Whole Chickpea Hummus), or Air Fryer Chicken Kebabs. You can also use air-fried eggplant as a base for Eggplant Parmesan, sandwiches, or salads.

Storage

To store leftover eggplant, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the eggplant for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

What to serve roasted eggplant with

Roasted eggplant is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or incorporated into salads, pastas, and more. Here are some ideas for what to serve with roasted eggplant:

• Mediterranean Dishes: Roasted eggplant pairs well with Mediterranean flavours like those in Moroccan couscous and Mediterranean chickpea salad.
• Pasta: Toss roasted eggplant with garlic pasta or use it in pasta primavera. It's also great with pasta and your favourite store-bought marinara sauce.
• Grains: Serve your roasted eggplant with lemon rice or quinoa salad.
• Chicken: Smoked chicken breast or air fryer chicken thighs will add some protein to your meal.
• Pork: Smothered pork chops or air fryer pork tenderloin will take your dinner to the next level.
• Salads: Roasted eggplant can be added to a variety of salads, such as a roasted vegetable salad with red peppers and tomatoes, or a Mediterranean quinoa salad.
• Dips: Roasted eggplant is delicious served with dips such as tzatziki, marinara sauce, or basil tomato sauce.
• Vegetables: Roasted eggplant can be served with a variety of other roasted vegetables, such as roasted potatoes and carrots, or oven-roasted asparagus with garlic Parmesan.
• Rice: Greek-style rice pilaf is a flavorful side dish that goes well with roasted eggplant.
• Zucchini: Grilled zucchini salad or ricotta-stuffed zucchini boats are light and fresh options to serve with roasted eggplant.

Frequently asked questions