Air-Fried Eggplant: A Quick, Crispy Delight

Air-fried eggplant is a tasty, savoury side dish that is quick and easy to make. It is healthier than other methods of cooking eggplant, and the air fryer simplifies the cooking process. You can use a variety of eggplants, such as dark purple globe eggplant, baby eggplants, or long, skinny, lighter-colored eggplants. The eggplant should be cut into uniform slices or cubes to ensure even cooking, and you can season it with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or a spice blend of your choice. The air fryer temperature should be set between 360-400°F, and the eggplant should be cooked for around 8-20 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispness.

Choosing the right eggplant

Appearance

A good-quality eggplant should have shiny and smooth skin with an even colour throughout the vegetable. Look for vibrant purple or bright white varieties, depending on your preference. Avoid eggplants with dull, garish skin, as this indicates poor storage or bad quality. Also, check for wrinkles, which suggest that the eggplant is old and was harvested a long time ago.

Size and Firmness

Opt for small- to medium-sized eggplants, as larger ones can be more bitter and seedy. The eggplant should feel slightly firm but not hard. It should have a little give when squeezed but should not be mushy. Avoid eggplants that are very soft or easily punctured, as they are past their prime.

Weight

A good eggplant should feel a bit heavy for its size. If it seems lighter than expected, it may have lost some of its water weight and is no longer fresh.

Stem

Examine the stem end of the eggplant, which should be green and free from any mould or mushiness. This area can provide early signs of damage, even if the skin of the eggplant appears fine.

Seeds

If you want to avoid seeds, choose male eggplants, as they do not contain any seeds. Female eggplants, on the other hand, have seeds and are sought after for this reason.

Blemishes

Look for any cuts or bruises on the eggplant's skin, as these may indicate that the eggplant has started to rot inside.

By considering these factors when choosing an eggplant, you can ensure that you select a fresh, high-quality vegetable that will taste delicious when cooked in your air fryer.

Salting and drying the eggplant

To salt your eggplant, start by slicing it into your desired shape and size. If you are using a basket-style air fryer, it is recommended to cut the eggplant into 0.5-inch slices or 1-inch cubes so that they cook evenly. If you are using an oven-style air fryer, you can cut the eggplant into lengthwise slabs, then stack these slabs and cut them into long strips, and then crosswise into cubes.

Once sliced, lay the eggplant on a sheet pan lined with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides of the eggplant slices with salt, using around 0.5-1 teaspoon of kosher salt per pound of eggplant. Leave the salted eggplant to rest for 15-20 minutes, then rinse and pat dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. This process will help to remove any excess moisture, which can lead to a soggy texture in the final dish.

If you are short on time or using high-quality, in-season eggplants, you may choose to skip the salting step. However, if you are still concerned about excess moisture, you can soak the eggplant slices in water for 30 minutes before air frying, which will help to soften them. Remember to pat the slices dry before adding any seasonings or placing them in the air fryer.

Using the right oil

When cooking eggplant in an air fryer, it's important to choose an oil with a high smoke point that can withstand the high temperatures of the fryer. Avocado oil and olive oil are recommended by several sources due to their high smoke points and health benefits. Olive oil is also praised for its ability to create a tender texture and caramelized exterior.

If you're looking for a more authentic Chinese flavor, peanut oil is a good option. It has a high smoke point and a distinct flavor that can enhance the taste of your dish. However, any neutral-flavored oil can be used if you don't have access to these specific types of oil. Just be sure to use enough oil to prevent the eggplant from burning and to achieve the desired level of crispness.

When preparing the eggplant, it is recommended to cut it into uniform slices or cubes so that it cooks evenly. After seasoning the eggplant, brush or toss it with oil to ensure a crispy and golden brown exterior. The amount of oil used should be enough to coat the eggplant without making it greasy.

By choosing the right oil and following these preparation tips, you can ensure that your air-fried eggplant turns out perfectly tender and crispy.

Seasoning the eggplant

Firstly, it is recommended to slice the eggplant into either 1/2-inch slices or 1-inch cubes. This ensures that the eggplant cooks evenly. If you are short on time, you can skip this step, but it is recommended for the best flavour and texture.

After slicing, sprinkle salt on both sides of the eggplant slices. This step helps to remove excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplant. Leave the salted eggplant for 15-30 minutes, and then pat dry with paper towels.

Next, brush both sides of the eggplant slices with oil. You can use olive oil, avocado oil, or any other neutral-flavoured oil with a high smoke point. This will ensure that the eggplant doesn't burn and helps to create a crispy texture.

Now it's time to add your choice of seasonings. You can use a pre-made Italian seasoning mix, or create your own blend by mixing dried oregano, rosemary, thyme, and basil. Sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the eggplant slices, along with some garlic powder, paprika, and additional salt and pepper, if desired. You can also add other flavourings such as black pepper, chilli flakes, or thyme.

Finally, place the seasoned eggplant in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you have too many slices, you may need to work in batches. Follow the cooking instructions, and enjoy your perfectly seasoned air-fried eggplant!

Reheating and storing the eggplant

Once you've cooked your eggplant in the air fryer, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. If you want to freeze cooked eggplant for longer storage, it's best to spread it out first. Place the cooked eggplant in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze it. Once the eggplant is frozen solid, transfer it to a freezer bag or an airtight container, where it will keep for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat the eggplant, it's recommended to use an oven rather than an air fryer, as the high heat of the air fryer may dry out or burn the eggplant. Place the frozen or refrigerated eggplant on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray and reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also reheat the eggplant in the air fryer at 375°F for a few minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking.

Frequently asked questions