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Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant: An Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy way to enjoy eggplant, then look no further! This crispy air fryer eggplant recipe is not only simple to prepare, but it also makes for a delightful side dish or snack. The air fryer provides a wonderful crunch without the need for excessive oil, making this dish a guilt-free indulgence.

What Makes Air Fryer Eggplant Special?

Eggplant, or aubergine as it is known in many parts of the UK, is a versatile vegetable that can sometimes be overlooked. Its unique texture and ability to absorb flavours make it a fantastic base for a variety of dishes. When air-fried, eggplant transforms into a crispy delight, ideal for dipping or as part of your main course.

Ingredients

To make this crispy air fryer eggplant, you will need the following simple ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant (aubergine)
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko works wonderfully for extra crunch)
• ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 large eggs
• Olive oil spray (or any cooking spray)
• Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

1. Slice the Eggplant: Begin by washing the eggplant and slicing it into 1/2-inch rounds. If you prefer, you can cut them into sticks for a different presentation.

2. Salt the Eggplant: Lay the slices on a clean kitchen towel or a colander and sprinkle them generously with salt. Allow them to sit for about 30-45 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplant.

3. Rinse and Pat Dry: After the resting period, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove the salt. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they are as moisture-free as possible.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. Set Up a Breading Station: In two separate bowls, beat the eggs in one and combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in another.

2. Coat the Eggplant: Dip each eggplant slice first into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 3: Air Fry the Eggplant

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F) for a few minutes.

2. Arrange the Eggplant: Place the coated eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd, as this will prevent them from becoming crispy.

3. Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the eggplant slices with olive oil spray to help them crisp up nicely.

4. Air Fry: Cook the eggplant in the air fryer for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The eggplant should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish: Once cooked, remove the eggplant from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for added flavour.

2. Dipping Sauce: For a delightful accompaniment, consider serving your crispy air fryer eggplant with a marinara sauce, aioli, or tzatziki for dipping.

Tips for Success

• Select Fresh Eggplant: Look for firm eggplants with shiny skin, as these indicate freshness.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to add your favourite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture to customise the flavour to your liking.
• Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

Conclusion

Crispy air fryer eggplant is a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious vegetable in a fun and tasty format. Easy to whip up and sure to impress friends and family, this recipe is a fabulous addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether served as a snack, a side dish, or a main component of a meal, it’s a dish that brings flavour, fun, and health to your dining table. So, roll up your sleeves and give this easy recipe a go!

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