Air Fryer Eggplant: Crispy, Golden Perfection

Air fryers are a quick and easy way to cook eggplant to crispy perfection. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can make a delicious, healthy side dish or snack in just a few minutes. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Choosing the right type of eggplant

Eggplants come in all shapes and sizes, so choosing the right type for your air fryer recipe is important. The most common variety is the American or Globe eggplant—this is the large, deep-purple eggplant you'll typically find in grocery stores. It has a meaty texture and works well as a protein substitute, making it a good all-purpose choice. However, due to its larger surface area, it may require a longer cooking time in the air fryer.

If you're looking for a quicker cooking option, consider the Chinese or Japanese eggplant. These varieties are long and slender, with a thin skin and a sweet flavour. They are excellent choices for stir-fries or grilling. Just be aware that Japanese eggplants tend to have a deeper purple colour than their Chinese counterparts, which are usually a lighter lavender-purple.

For a truly unique option, try the Fairy Tale eggplant. This petite variety has a stunning purple and white striped exterior and a sweet and tender flesh. Its small size makes it perfect for grilling, and its quick cook time will have you enjoying your crispy eggplant in no time.

Lastly, if you're looking for something a little different, try the Indian eggplant, also known as the baby eggplant. These are small and round with a deep purple skin, and are often used in Indian dishes like curry. They can also be roasted or stuffed.

Preparing the eggplant for cooking

Firstly, select fresh eggplants that are firm to the touch, with smooth and glossy skin. It is recommended to use globe eggplants as they are the most common variety found in grocery stores. However, other types such as Japanese, Chinese, or Italian eggplants can also be used.

For the cutting process, it is important to ensure evenly sized pieces. Cut the eggplant lengthwise into halves, and then cut each half horizontally to create thin slices. You can also cut them into 1-inch cubes if desired. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking.

The next step is optional but recommended: salting the eggplant. Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices or cubes and let them rest for 15-30 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture, which can impact the final texture. After the resting period, use paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to pat the eggplant dry, removing any excess moisture.

Now, you can season the eggplant. Brush both sides of the slices with oil, or place the cubes in a large bowl and drizzle with oil, tossing to coat evenly. For added flavour, you can use various seasonings like Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, thyme, or a combination of your choice.

Your eggplant is now ready to be cooked in the air fryer! Remember to preheat the air fryer to the recommended temperature, usually around 400°F, and arrange the eggplant in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

The best oil to use

The amount of oil is important, too. You want to use enough to get that crispy texture, but not so much that your eggplant becomes greasy. You'll be using way less oil than if you were frying the eggplant, but it's still easy to use too much. The eggplant will look dry with the right amount of oil, but don't worry—once it cooks and shrinks, you'll have the perfect amount.

Seasoning and flavour combinations

The beauty of cooking eggplant in an air fryer is that you can experiment with a variety of seasonings and flavour combinations to find your favourite.

Italian-style

For an Italian-style eggplant, use a combination of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. You can make your own Italian seasoning by mixing together dried oregano, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and dried basil. This combination is robust and savoury and pairs well with the natural flavour of the eggplant.

Spicy

If you prefer a spicy kick to your eggplant, add some red chilli flakes, or smoked paprika. Black pepper is also a great addition for a subtle spicy note.

Herby

For a herbal flavour, add fresh thyme, or sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Cheesy

For a cheesy, crispy coating, use grated parmesan cheese. This adds a nutty flavour and a golden, crispy texture.

Asian-inspired

For an Asian-inspired dish, use a combination of Chinkiang vinegar or rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and green onion. You can also add Thai chilli peppers, basil, cilantro, or chilli oil for an extra kick of flavour and colour.

Simple

If you prefer a simpler flavour profile, you can stick to just salt and pepper, or avocado oil and a handful of pantry spices.

Other ideas

Other seasonings you could try include rosemary, thyme, basil, or oregano. You could also add spices like garlic powder or paprika.

Remember, the key to successful air fryer eggplant is to not overcrowd the basket and ensure there is good air circulation for even cooking. Enjoy experimenting with different flavours!

How long to cook the eggplant for

The cooking time for eggplant in an air fryer depends on the type of eggplant, the size of the pieces, and the temperature setting.

For example, if you are cooking 1-inch eggplant cubes, you will need to air fry them for around 12 minutes at 400°F. If you are cooking slices, these will take a little longer—around 17 to 20 minutes at 370°F. If you are cooking bite-size pieces of Chinese eggplant, this will take around 7 minutes at 400°F.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on your specific air fryer and the thickness of your eggplant slices or cubes. It is recommended to keep an eye on your eggplant after the 10-minute mark to ensure they do not come out over- or undercooked.

Frequently asked questions