Air-Frying Aubergine: A Healthy, Quick Treat?

Yes, you can cook aubergine in an air fryer! It's a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with almost anything. Aubergine is a staple in the Mediterranean diet and is used in many recipes, from salads to dips and main dishes. Cooking aubergine in an air fryer gives it a crispy texture without using a lot of oil, and it's quicker than roasting. You can cut the aubergine into sticks, cubes, or slices and season it with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices. Then, put it in the air fryer basket and cook at a temperature between 190°C to 400°C for 15-20 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispiness.

Seasoning options

There are endless options for seasoning aubergine cooked in an air fryer. A simple option is to use garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano, creating an Italian seasoning blend. Alternatively, you could use a Mexican blend, Cajun seasoning, or a mix of paprika and cayenne for a smoky and spicy kick. For an Asian flair, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce before cooking. You could also try adding lemon juice, black pepper, or kosher salt.

If you want to add a cheesy finish to your aubergine, sprinkle on some Parmesan or mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. You could also add an egg to help bind the bread crumb mixture to the aubergine slices. For a deluxe dish, don't skip out on the chopped parsley. For a kid-friendly option, use basic seasonings and serve with a marinara sauce for dipping.

When it comes to oil, it is recommended to use a high smoke point oil, such as avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil. This will help the aubergine become crisp and golden brown.

Salting and drying

To begin, wash and dry the aubergines. Cut off a thin slice from one side of the aubergine to create a flat surface, which will make it easier to cut. Then, cut the aubergine in half. Place the aubergine halves cut-side up, and sprinkle salt generously onto the exposed flesh. It is recommended to use around 3/4 to 1 teaspoon of kosher salt per pound of aubergine, but you can adjust the amount to your taste. You don't need to wet the aubergine slices before salting.

Let the salted aubergines sit for around 30 minutes to an hour. During this time, the salt will draw out the moisture, and you'll start to see droplets of liquid forming on the surface. After the allotted time has passed, use a paper towel to pat the aubergine dry and absorb any remaining moisture. This step ensures that your aubergine will have that desirable crispy texture when cooked in the air fryer.

Once the aubergine is dry, you can continue with the recipe as instructed. However, it's important to note that the salting and drying process may cause the aubergine to shrink slightly, so be mindful of this when cutting your vegetable into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Oil type and quantity

When it comes to cooking aubergine in an air fryer, the type and quantity of oil used can vary depending on your preferences and the desired flavour profile. Here are some insights into different oil options and the amounts typically used:

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a popular choice for cooking aubergine in an air fryer. It has a relatively high smoke point, which is crucial when using the high temperatures of an air fryer. Extra virgin olive oil, however, is not recommended as it may burn. Regular olive oil can be used as a coating for the aubergine skin to enhance flavour and texture. It is also commonly used as a base for tossing or drizzling over aubergine pieces, along with seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic, and oregano.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is praised by some for its health benefits and high smoke point. It can be used as a cooking oil in an air fryer, and a small amount goes a long way. Avocado oil is also suitable for an oil spray, ensuring an even coating on the aubergine.

Sesame Oil

For an Asian-inspired flavour profile, sesame oil adds a nutty flavour to the aubergine. It is recommended to use a neutral oil like avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil as a base and then add sesame oil for that distinct flavour.

Quantity Guidelines

When it comes to quantity, the general consensus is that aubergine should be well-coated but not greasy. The amount of oil needed will depend on the size and quantity of aubergine being cooked. As a guide, for 1 lb of aubergine, 4 tablespoons of oil are recommended. However, some sources suggest that this may make the aubergine look dry before cooking, but once cooked, the aubergine shrinks, and the oil is sufficient. It is important not to use too much oil to avoid greasiness.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for aubergine in an air fryer depend on the type of dish you are preparing, the size of the aubergine pieces, and the desired texture. Here are some common scenarios and their respective cooking times and temperatures:

Aubergine Fries or Chips

If you are making aubergine fries or chips, it is recommended to cut the aubergine into uniform, 1/2-inch cubes or long "chip" shapes. This ensures even cooking. For this style, the cooking time is typically around 15 to 20 minutes at a temperature of 370°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). It is important to arrange the aubergine in a single layer and flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning and crispness.

Sliced or Parmigiana-Style Aubergine

For sliced aubergine or aubergine parmigiana, the cooking time and temperature vary slightly. The temperature range is similar, between 375°F and 400°F (180°C to 200°C). However, the cooking time is shorter, typically around 10 to 15 minutes. Again, arranging the aubergine in a single layer and flipping or turning halfway through is essential for even cooking.

Smaller Aubergine Pieces

If you are working with smaller aubergine pieces, such as cubes or halves, the cooking time will be reduced. In this case, the cooking time can range from 7 to 12 minutes at the same temperature range as mentioned above.

Thicker Aubergine Pieces

On the other hand, if you are cooking thicker aubergine pieces, you may need to increase the cooking time. For thicker slices or larger aubergines, a cooking time of around 17 to 20 minutes at the recommended temperatures is more appropriate.

Reheating Cooked Aubergine

When reheating cooked aubergine in the air fryer, you won't need to cook it for as long. Simply reheat it in the air fryer at 375°F for about 3 to 5 minutes to restore its crispiness.

It is worth noting that cooking times may vary based on factors such as the thickness of the aubergine pieces, the size and style of the air fryer, and personal preferences for doneness. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on the aubergine while it's cooking and adjust the timing as needed to avoid overcooking or burning.

Reheating and storing

Storing and reheating your air-fried aubergine is easy. If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three to four days.

To reheat, pop them in the microwave or, for a crispier texture, put them back in the air fryer at 375ºF for around three to four minutes. You can also serve leftovers cold on a salad.

If you want to freeze your aubergine, spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the aubergine to a freezer bag and store for up to four months. You can reheat frozen aubergine directly in the air fryer.

Frequently asked questions