Air-Fried Eggplant: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Air fryer eggplant is a quick, easy, and tasty way to cook eggplant. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a side or used as a base for other recipes. The air fryer transforms the humble eggplant into a veggie superstar with a golden-brown exterior and a tender interior.

This cooking method is perfect for those who are short on time or don't want to use a lot of oil. The eggplant is seasoned and then placed in the air fryer for around 10-20 minutes, depending on the recipe and the thickness of the eggplant slices or cubes.

There are also several variations to the basic recipe, such as adding a breadcrumb coating or turning it into eggplant parmesan.

How to cut eggplant for the air fryer

The first step in preparing eggplant in an air fryer is to select the right type of eggplant. Globe eggplant is the most common variety found in grocery stores, but other types such as Japanese, Chinese, and fairy tale eggplant also work well. Look for eggplants that are firm, with smooth and glossy skin.

Before cutting the eggplant, wash and dry the outer skin. Then, use a sharp knife to cut the eggplant into uniform slices or cubes. The recommended thickness for slices is about 1/2 inch, while cubes should be cut to a size of around 1 inch. Uniform pieces will ensure even cooking in the air fryer.

If you are using a larger eggplant, you may want to remove the bitter taste by salting the eggplant before cooking. To do this, sprinkle salt on all sides of the eggplant slices or cubes and let them rest for about 15 minutes. This process draws out the moisture and helps to soften the eggplant. After salting, pat the eggplant dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.

Now you are ready to season and cook the eggplant in your air fryer! For detailed instructions on seasoning and cooking times, refer to the various recipes available online.

How to season eggplant for the air fryer

Seasoning eggplant for the air fryer is a simple process that can be done in a few different ways. Here are some tips and variations to achieve the perfect flavour:

Choosing the Right Eggplant

Select good eggplants that are firm to the touch and have smooth, glossy skin. This will help ensure that your eggplant cooks evenly and has a desirable texture.

Preparing the Eggplant

Cut the eggplant into uniform slices or cubes. This will ensure even cooking in the air fryer. You can cut the eggplant into 1/2-inch slices or 1-inch cubes, depending on your preference.

Some recipes suggest salting the eggplant before cooking to remove excess liquid and create a crispier texture. If you choose to do this, sprinkle the eggplant slices or cubes with salt and let them rest for about 15 minutes before patting them dry with paper towels.

Seasoning Options

Basic Seasoning

You can season your eggplant with just salt and black pepper to let the natural flavour of the eggplant shine. Brush the eggplant slices or cubes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other basic spices like garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary.

Italian Seasoning

For an Italian-inspired flavour, use a combination of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. You can make your own Italian seasoning mix by combining dried oregano, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and dried basil. Brush the eggplant with olive oil and sprinkle with the seasoning mix.

Parmesan Cheese

For a cheesy and crispy coating, use grated Parmesan cheese. Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. The Parmesan cheese will melt and form a delicious crispy coating.

Breaded Eggplant

For an extra crispy texture, coat the eggplant slices in a breadcrumb mixture before air frying. You can use panko breadcrumbs or a gluten-free alternative. Dip the eggplant slices in a beaten egg, then coat them with the breadcrumbs. You can also add Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavour.

Final Tips

When cooking the eggplant in the air fryer, arrange the slices or cubes in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the basket. Cook in batches if needed. Flip the eggplant halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your eggplant slices and your air fryer model, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

How long to cook eggplant in the air fryer

The cooking time for eggplant in an air fryer depends on the thickness of the eggplant slices or cubes, the specific air fryer model, and the desired texture. On average, it takes around 12 to 20 minutes to cook eggplant in an air fryer, but this can vary. Here are some tips and guidelines to help you get the perfect air-fried eggplant:

• For sliced eggplant, cut the eggplant into uniform slices, preferably about 1/2-inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
• For cubed eggplant, aim for 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
• Preheat your air fryer to between 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• If you want to salt the eggplant to remove excess moisture and reduce bitterness, sprinkle the slices or cubes with salt and let them rest for about 15 minutes. Then, pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.
• Brush or toss the eggplant with oil to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture. Avocado oil, olive oil, or regular vegetable oil are good choices.
• Season the eggplant with your desired herbs and spices. You can use a simple combination of salt and black pepper or get creative with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, thyme, or other favorites.
• Place the eggplant in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. You may need to cook the eggplant in batches.
• Cook the eggplant at the preheated temperature for 12 to 20 minutes, flipping the eggplant halfway through the cooking time.
• The eggplant is done when it is slightly charred on the outside and tender on the inside. Check for doneness by inserting a knife or fork into the eggplant; it should slide in easily.

By following these guidelines and adjusting the cooking time as needed for your particular air fryer and eggplant thickness, you'll be able to cook eggplant in the air fryer to your desired level of doneness.

How to store leftover eggplant from the air fryer

Storing leftover eggplant from the air fryer is simple and will ensure your delicious dish stays fresh and tasty for longer.

How to Store Leftover Eggplant:

• Let the cooked eggplant reach room temperature.
• Transfer the eggplant to an airtight container.
• Place the container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.

Reheating Tips:

• For crispy results, reheat the eggplant in the air fryer for 2 minutes at 400°F or in the oven for 5-8 minutes at 300°F.
• You can also use a microwave, but this may affect the texture, making the eggplant soggy.

Freezing Instructions:

• While freezing is not ideal for this dish as it may become soggy, you can freeze the eggplant in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Separate each layer with wax paper to prevent the pieces from fusing.
• Thaw by placing the container in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the air fryer or oven.

By following these storage instructions, you can enjoy your air-fried eggplant multiple times throughout the week and preserve its delicious taste and texture!

How to reheat leftover eggplant in the air fryer

To reheat leftover eggplant in the air fryer, start by preheating your air fryer to 320 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the leftover eggplant in the air fryer basket in a single layer and reheat for 2 minutes or until heated through. If you are reheating a large amount of eggplant, you may need to work in batches to ensure even heating.

Alternatively, you can reheat the eggplant in the microwave. Place the leftover eggplant on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 30-second intervals until it is warmed through.

Frequently asked questions