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How to Cook Eggplant: Baked, Broiled & Air Fryer Methods

Eggplant, known as aubergine in British English, is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways to enhance its flavour and texture. Whether you prefer it baked, broiled, or air-fried, there’s a method that’s sure to please your palate. This article will guide you through three popular cooking methods, providing tips and tricks for the perfect aubergine every time.

Preparing the Eggplant

Before diving into the cooking methods, it’s essential to prepare the eggplant properly. Choose firm, shiny aubergines with no blemishes. To reduce any bitterness, many cooks opt to salt their eggplant before cooking. Simply slice the aubergine, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse off the salt and pat the slices dry with a kitchen towel. This step can also help to remove excess moisture, leading to better overall texture in your final dish.

Baked Eggplant

Baking is a fantastic way to bring out the rich, mellow flavour of aubergine. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

• 1 large aubergine, sliced into 1cm rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: grated cheese, breadcrumbs, herbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or Gas Mark 6.
2. Prepare the eggplant: Follow the salting method if desired, then pat the slices dry.
3. Lay out the slices: Arrange the aubergine slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with oil: Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Add toppings (optional): Sprinkle breadcrumbs and cheese on top for a crispy finish.
6. Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the slices halfway. The aubergine should be tender and golden.

Baked eggplant can be served as a side dish or the basis for many recipes, such as aubergine Parmesan or as part of a vegetable lasagne.

Broiled Eggplant

Broiling is a quick and efficient way to prepare eggplant and gives it a deliciously smoky flavour. Here’s how to broil aubergine to perfection:

Ingredients:

• 1 aubergine, sliced into rounds or quarters
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs for added flavour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill or broiler: Set it to high.
2. Prepare the eggplant: As before, slice and salt if desired.
3. Season the slices: Brush both sides of the slices with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices.
4. Place under the broiler: Arrange the aubergine slices on a baking sheet and position them a few inches from the broiler.
5. Broil: Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, keeping a close watch to prevent burning. The slices should be browned and tender.

Broiled aubergine is perfect for adding to salads, pasta dishes, or enjoying on its own with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Air Fryer Eggplant

For those who want a healthier option, the air fryer delivers perfectly crispy aubergine with less oil. Here’s a simple method:

Ingredients:

• 1 medium aubergine, cut into cubes or slices
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Italian seasoning or Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 200°C.
2. Prepare the eggplant: Cut the aubergine into your preferred shape (cubes or slices) and salt if desired.
3. Season the pieces: Toss the eggplant in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and any desired seasonings until evenly coated.
4. Air fry: Place the eggplant in the basket of the air fryer in a single layer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Check for doneness: The aubergine should be golden and tender.

Air fryer eggplant works beautifully as a healthy snack or can be added to stir-fries, salads, or grain bowls.

Conclusion

Cooking aubergine might seem intimidating at first, but with these simple methods, you can create delicious dishes that highlight its unique character. Whether you choose to bake, broil, or air fry, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with flavours, and enjoy the delightful texture and taste of this versatile vegetable in your cooking!

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