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Crispy Eggplant Bacon Recipe (Air Fryer or Oven)

Eggplant bacon might sound like a quirky culinary invention, but it’s quickly becoming a favourite for those seeking a delicious, plant-based alternative to traditional bacon. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this crispy eggplant bacon recipe is a fantastic option that’s both tasty and versatile. Best of all, it can be prepared in an air fryer or a conventional oven, making it accessible for everyone.

Why Choose Eggplant Bacon?

Eggplant, also known as aubergine, has a naturally rich flavour and meaty texture, which makes it an ideal candidate for transforming into "bacon." Not only is eggplant low in calories, but it’s also packed with vitamins and minerals, including fibre, potassium, and vitamins B1 and B6. This recipe gives the humble eggplant a deliciously smoky twist that can elevate salads, sandwiches, or simply be enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

For this crispy eggplant bacon, you will need:

• 1 large eggplant (aubergine)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (or smoked paprika for a milder flavour)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave nectar)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
• Olive oil spray (for air frying) or a drizzle (for oven baking)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

1. Slice the Eggplant: Begin by trimming the ends of the eggplant and slicing it into thin, bacon-like strips, about 1/8 inch thick. You can use a mandolin for uniform thickness if you have one.

2. Salting: Lay the sliced eggplant on a clean dish towel or paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture and reduce any bitterness. After 30 minutes, rinse the slices under cold water and pat them dry with a towel.

Step 2: Marinate the Eggplant

1. Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, liquid smoke, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.

2. Marinate: Place the dried eggplant slices in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they are all well-coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes – the longer, the better, as it will absorb more flavour.

Step 3: Cooking Method

Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

2. Arrange in Air Fryer: Spray the basket lightly with olive oil and arrange the marinated eggplant slices in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.

3. Crisp Up: Cook the eggplant bacon in the air fryer for 10 to 15 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Keep an eye on them as cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your slices and the model of your air fryer. You want them to be crispy and slightly browned.

Oven Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the marinated eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle lightly with olive oil for crispiness.

3. Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them in the final minutes to prevent burning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your eggplant bacon is ready and irresistibly crispy, remove it from the air fryer or oven and let it cool slightly. This crispy treat can be served straight away or stored in an airtight container for a few days. It’s perfect as a topping for salads, inside sandwiches, or even as a tasteful snack on its own.

Final Thoughts

Crispy eggplant bacon is a delightful and easy way to enjoy a guilt-free, plant-based snack or meal addition. Whether you opt for the air fryer for a quick fix or the oven for a batch-cooking session, this recipe is sure to impress even the most dedicated bacon enthusiasts. So why not give it a go and treat your taste buds to something truly unique? Enjoy your culinary adventure with this crispy, flavoursome twist on bacon!

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