Air-Fryer Eggplant: The Perfect Roast Timing

Air fryers are a great way to cook eggplant, yielding a tender texture and caramelised roasted exterior. The cooking time depends on the air fryer model and the size of the eggplant slices or cubes. For instance, cooking eggplant in an air fryer at 400°F for 12 minutes will yield tender, golden brown slices. However, cooking at 375°F for 20 minutes will produce crispier eggplant.

How to prepare eggplant for air frying

Preparing eggplant for air frying is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. Here is a guide to help you get the best results:

Step 1: Select and Cut the Eggplant

Choose a fresh, firm eggplant, preferably with glossy, smooth, and taut skin. You can use a globe eggplant, which is the most common type found in grocery stores, or opt for Japanese or Chinese eggplant for a thinner and longer variety. Cut the eggplant into your desired shape, such as ½-inch rounds or 1-inch cubes. You can also slice the eggplant lengthwise into halves or quarters before cutting it into cubes.

Step 2: Salting (Optional)

Salting the eggplant is an optional step, but it can help remove excess liquid and reduce bitterness. If you decide to salt, place the sliced eggplant on a paper towel-lined baking sheet or a colander. Sprinkle salt generously on both sides of the eggplant slices or cubes. Set aside for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the eggplant to "sweat" and release moisture. Then, pat the eggplant dry with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.

Step 3: Seasoning

Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with oil, or place the cubes in a large bowl and drizzle with oil. You can use extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil. Make sure the eggplant is well-coated. For extra flavor, season the eggplant with your choice of spices. Some popular options include Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, onion powder, or basil.

Step 4: Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, typically between 370 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the seasoned eggplant in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring that the pieces are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the eggplant in batches. Air fry for 10 to 20 minutes, flipping the eggplant halfway through the cooking process. The eggplant is ready when it is soft, caramelized, and golden brown. Avoid overcooking, as it can make the eggplant too dry and tough.

Step 5: Serving

Air-fried eggplant can be served as a delicious and healthy side dish or appetizer. It goes well with a variety of main courses and is perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce, such as marinara or tzatziki. Sprinkle the eggplant with fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and garnish. Enjoy your crispy and tender eggplant!

How to air fry eggplant

Air frying eggplant is a quick and easy way to cook this tasty vegetable, and it can be a delicious and healthy side dish or snack. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to air fry eggplant to perfection.

Ingredients and Preparation:

First, you will need to gather your ingredients. For air-frying eggplant, you will need:

• Eggplant (globes are the most common variety, but Japanese, Chinese, or Italian eggplants also work)
• Oil (extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil is recommended)
• Salt (kosher or sea salt)
• Spices/Seasonings (garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, etc.)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Once you have your ingredients, follow these steps to prepare the eggplant for air frying:

• Cut the eggplant into the desired shape. For best results, it is recommended to cut the eggplant into 1/2-inch rounds or 1-inch cubes/slices. You can also cut it into thin lengthwise slices for eggplant chips or fries.
• Place the sliced eggplant on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with salt on both sides. This step helps remove excess liquid and bitterness and improves the texture and flavour. Let the salted eggplant rest for about 30 minutes, then pat it dry with paper towels.
• Brush or drizzle the eggplant with oil and season with your desired spices/seasonings. Make sure to coat all sides evenly.

Air Frying:

Now that your eggplant is prepared, it's time to air fry!

• Preheat your air fryer to 370-400°F (depending on your model and preferences).
• Place the seasoned eggplant in the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer, making sure the pieces don't touch each other. Air frying works best when there is space between the pieces for proper air circulation. You may need to work in batches if your air fryer is small.
• Air fry for 10-20 minutes at the set temperature, flipping the eggplant halfway through the cooking process. The cooking time will depend on your air fryer and the thickness of your eggplant slices. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, as this can make the eggplant dry and tough.
• The eggplant is ready when it is soft, golden, and slightly crispy.

Serving:

Air-fried eggplant can be served as a side dish or snack and goes well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve it as an appetizer or snack with a side of marinara sauce, tzatziki, or your favourite dipping sauce.
• Sprinkle it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavour.
• Pair it with proteins like chicken or seafood, or serve it as a side to a vegetarian meal.
• Use it as an ingredient in salads, casseroles, stews, or pasta dishes.

Storage:

If you have any leftover air-fried eggplant, here are some tips for storing and reheating:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• To reheat, place the eggplant back in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also use a toaster oven or microwave, but these may affect the crispiness.
• You can also freeze cooked eggplant slices/cubes by placing them on a parchment paper-lined baking tray and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag or container for up to 2-3 months.

And that's it! You now know how to air fry eggplant to perfection. Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings and serving options to find your favourite combinations.

How to serve air-fried eggplant

Air-fried eggplant is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

As a Side Dish

Air-fried eggplant slices or cubes make a delicious side dish to complement a variety of main courses. They can be served with a dip, such as marinara sauce, basil tomato sauce, or tzatziki, or alongside Mediterranean dishes like Greek yogurt chicken or Mediterranean lemon chicken. They also pair well with proteins, especially chicken and seafood dishes.

Incorporate into Cooked Grains

Air-fried eggplant is a tasty addition to cooked grains like quinoa salad, bulgur, or pasta dishes. Try adding it to your favourite quinoa salad or pasta recipe, such as Eggplant Pomodoro Pasta, and topping it with Parmesan cheese, ground black pepper, and fresh parsley.

As an Appetizer

Air-fried eggplant can be served as a tasty appetizer or snack, especially when paired with a dipping sauce like marinara or tzatziki. Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley for an extra touch.

As a Main Course

To make air-fried eggplant the star of the show, serve it as an entree over pasta tossed with olive oil and fresh herbs. Add a dollop of marinara or fresh tomato sauce and top it off with cashew cream for a creamy, indulgent bite.

In a Salad

Air-fried eggplant is a versatile ingredient that can be added to salads, casseroles, or stews. Try it with a substantial salad for a light yet satisfying meal.

How to store air-fried eggplant

Storing air-fried eggplant is simple and will ensure your delicious dish stays fresh and tasty for longer.

First, let the eggplant reach room temperature. Then, transfer the eggplant to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days when stored this way.

Reheating Tips:

To reheat your air-fried eggplant, pop it back into the air fryer at 400°F for about two minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 300°F for 5-8 minutes. It is recommended to drain any excess liquid before serving, as the eggplant may release water during storage.

Freezing Air-Fried Eggplant:

If you want to freeze your air-fried eggplant, place the room-temperature pieces in a freezer bag or airtight container, separating each layer with wax paper to prevent the pieces from fusing together. Your eggplant will stay fresh in the freezer for up to two months.

Thawing and Reheating Frozen Eggplant:

Thaw frozen eggplant by placing it in the fridge overnight. Remove the wax paper and reheat in the air fryer at 400°F for about two minutes, or in the oven at 300°F for 5-8 minutes.

Tips for Optimal Freshness:

For optimal freshness and taste, it is best to eat eggplant as soon as possible after purchasing. However, with proper storage, you can enjoy your air-fried eggplant for several days or even months if frozen.

The best air fryer to use

The best air fryer to roast eggplant is the 7-quart basket-style GoWise air fryer. Its large basket allows for cooking the eggplant in only two batches.

Another great option is the Instant Pot Omni Plus Air Fryer, which can be used to make delicious air fryer eggplant with a crispy and nutty coating.

Frequently asked questions