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Crispy Miso Glazed Eggplant: A Delightful Dish for Every Occasion

Eggplant, often celebrated for its unique texture and ability to absorb flavours, becomes a true star when prepared with a miso glaze. This Crispy Miso Glazed Eggplant can be made either in an air fryer or baked in the oven, making it a versatile dish suitable for various cooking preferences. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also vegan-friendly and packed with umami goodness. Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish.

Ingredients

To create this dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized eggplants
• 3 tablespoons white or yellow miso paste
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey, if not strictly vegan)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• A pinch of salt
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Fresh coriander or spring onion (for garnish)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Eggplant
Begin by slicing the eggplants into 1 cm thick rounds or long strips, depending on your preference. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can lightly salt the eggplant slices and let them rest for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat them dry afterward, but this step is optional if you are short on time.

2. Make the Miso Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine the miso paste, maple syrup, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and well-combined. The glaze should be thick yet pourable.

3. Coat the Eggplant
In a large bowl or a zip-lock bag, toss the eggplant slices with the miso glaze, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes for deeper flavour penetration.

Cooking Methods

Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F).
2. Arrange the marinated eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is crispy and golden brown. Adjust the time as necessary, depending on your air fryer model.

Oven-Baked Method

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the marinated eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the eggplant is crispy and caramelised on the edges.

Garnishing and Serving

Once your eggplant is perfectly crispy, remove it from the air fryer or oven and let it cool for a few minutes. For an added touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and finely chopped fresh coriander or spring onion over the top.

The Crispy Miso Glazed Eggplant can be served as a delightful side dish, a stunning appetiser, or even as a main dish alongside steamed rice or noodles. Its rich umami flavour pairs wonderfully with crisp salads or can be enjoyed in wraps and sandwiches.

Conclusion

Crispy Miso Glazed Eggplant is a simple yet impressive dish that presents a harmonious balance of flavours and textures. Whether you opt for the air fryer or the oven, this recipe is sure to please both vegan and non-vegan appetites alike. With its ease of preparation and adaptability, it’s a perfect addition to any meal. So, gather your ingredients and delight in the magic of miso and eggplant—it’s a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss!

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