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Gluten-Free Fall Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant with Miso

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, autumn invites us to indulge in the rich flavours and comforting dishes of the season. One ingredient that perfectly encapsulates fall is eggplant, with its deep colour and remarkable versatility. If you’re looking for a gluten-free dish that encapsulates the warmth of autumn, try this delectable Air Fryer Eggplant with Miso. This recipe not only showcases the unique taste of eggplant but also incorporates the umami richness of miso paste, making it a perfect side dish or a main event on your dining table.

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant
• 2 tablespoons miso paste (white or red, depending on your preference)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey, if not strictly vegan)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Chopped spring onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant: Begin by washing the eggplant and slicing it into rounds approximately 1cm thick. You can choose to cut them into half-moons as well for a different presentation. Place the sliced eggplant in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Allow it to sit for about 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. After this time, rinse the slices under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

2. Make the Miso Marinade: In a separate bowl, combine the miso paste, olive oil, maple syrup, vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth, ensuring that the miso is fully incorporated into the mixture. This will create a luscious glaze that adds depth to the eggplant.

3. Coat the Eggplant: Add the dried and rinsed eggplant slices to the bowl with the miso marinade. Gently toss the eggplant until each piece is well-coated. For an even distribution, you may want to use your hands or a spatula to ensure every slice is enveloped in the flavour-packed mixture.

4. Air Fry the Eggplant: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). Once heated, arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your fryer, you may need to fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is beautifully caramelised and tender.

5. Serve: Once done, remove the eggplant from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for a touch of freshness and crunch.

Enjoying Your Air Fryer Eggplant with Miso

This dish can be served in various ways. It makes a delightful side alongside grilled meats or is equally satisfying when paired with rice or quinoa for a wholesome vegetarian meal. The combination of umami from the miso and the natural sweetness of the eggplant creates a mouthwatering experience that captures the essence of autumnal flavours.

Final Thoughts

As you embrace the culinary delights of fall, this Air Fryer Eggplant with Miso is a must-try recipe that is not only gluten-free but also bursting with flavour. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress at gatherings. With its health-conscious cooking method and the added nutritional benefits of eggplant, this dish is as good for you as it is delicious. Enjoy the seasonal bounty and celebrate the flavours of autumn!