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Delicious Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe

Eggplants, also known as aubergines, are a delightful and versatile vegetable that can be prepared in a myriad of ways. If you’re looking for a healthy, quick, and flavourful dish, an air fryer eggplant recipe might just be what you need. Air frying not only reduces the amount of oil used but also provides a wonderfully crispy texture that makes this dish irresistible. Here, we’ll share a simple yet delicious air fryer eggplant recipe that you can whip up in no time.

Ingredients

To serve 4 people, you will need:

• 1 large eggplant (approximately 500g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy twist)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Start by washing the eggplant under cold water. Cut off the stem and slice the eggplant into 1 cm (½ inch) thick rounds. You can also cut them into cubes if you prefer. If you’re concerned about bitterness, you can sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This process drains excess moisture and draws out any bitter flavours. After 30 minutes, rinse and pat the slices dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2: Season the Eggplant

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the eggplant slices into the bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated with the seasoning mixture. If you fancy a cheesy flavour, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the bowl and mix well.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that lovely crispiness.

Step 4: Air Fry the Eggplant

Arrange the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Ensure there’s enough space between the slices for the air to circulate properly. You may need to work in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

Air fry the eggplant for about 12-15 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time; you want them to be golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the eggplant is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve them warm. These air-fried eggplants make a fantastic side dish, or you can enjoy them on their own as a healthy snack.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Eggplant

• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to customise the seasoning to suit your taste. Consider adding Italian herbs, chilli flakes for a kick, or even a dash of soy sauce for an Asian twist.

• Avoid Overcrowding: For the crispiest results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook in batches to allow for adequate airflow.

• Storage: Leftover air-fried eggplant can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to regain their crispiness.

Conclusion

Air fryer eggplant is not only a quick and easy recipe to try but also a delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Whether you serve it as a side, incorporate it into a salad, or enjoy it as a snack, the crispy texture and rich flavour will please everyone at the table. Dive into this healthy alternative and delight in the wonderful taste of air-fried eggplant!