Air frying eggplant brings out its natural sweetness, resulting in a dish that’s both delightful and simple. This recipe gives you tender, crispy slices that can easily complement any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy family gathering, these air fryer eggplants are a real crowd-pleaser.
Why You Will Love This Eggplant Recipe
This air fryer eggplant is fantastic for several reasons. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy days. With everyday ingredients, you won’t have to make a special trip to the store. Plus, the flavor is rich and satisfying, while the preparation is minimal—ideal for families with little ones.
How to Make Eggplant
Making this dish is straightforward. You’ll slice the eggplant, mix up a flavorful sauce, and let your air fryer do the work. It’s a simple process, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious side in no time!
What You Need
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 tbsp of avocado oil
- 2 tbsp of white sugar
- 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp minced garlic (3 cloves)
- 1 tbsp chili oil (optional)
Step-by-Step
- Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees.
- Slice your eggplant into thick slices—about half inch rounds.
- Cut slits in the middle to create openings for the sauce.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together oil, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and chili oil (optional).
- Line your air fryer with parchment paper for easy clean up.
- Place your eggplant rounds on the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. Place the sauce on top of the eggplant.
- Air fry for 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Broil for an extra 2 minutes for a crispier crust.
How to Serve Eggplant
These crispy air fried eggplants make a wonderful side dish to accompany grilled meats or can stand alone as a tasty snack. Try serving them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt for added flavor. They also pair beautifully with rice or a fresh salad.
How to Store Eggplant
For leftovers, store any unused eggplant slices in an airtight container. They can stay in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cooked slices for a tasty treat later on. Just ensure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Recipe Tips
- Cut the eggplant thick enough to hold up during cooking.
- Ensure your air fryer is preheated for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—this helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness with less sugar if preferred.
- Experiment with different sauces for variety.
- If unsure about the texture, cook a little longer for extra crispiness.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat if your family enjoys spice.
- Try using different oils, like olive oil, for a flavor twist.
Variations & Swaps
- Spicy version: Add more chili oil or sprinkle on some red pepper flakes.
- Herb addition: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or basil for an Italian twist.
- Kid-friendly: Serve with a homemade yogurt dip for an appealing flavor for younger palates.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the eggplant and sauce ahead of time. Slice the eggplant and store it in the fridge. Mix the sauce and keep it separate until you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze the eggplant after cooking?
Definitely! Let the eggplant slices cool completely before sealing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again.
What if I don’t have avocado oil?
You can substitute with any neutral oil. Olive oil or canola oil also work well in this recipe.
What are some good sides to serve with this dish?
This dish pairs nicely with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh veggie stir-fry. You could also serve it alongside rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with this easy air fryer eggplant recipe! It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to be a hit with your family.
Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 tbsp avocado oil Can substitute with olive oil or canola oil.
- 2 tbsp white sugar Adjust sweetness as desired.
- 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 tbsp chili oil Optional for a spicier version.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees.
- Slice your eggplant into thick slices—about half inch rounds.
- Cut slits in the middle to create openings for the sauce.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together oil, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and chili oil (optional).
- Line your air fryer with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cooking
- Place your eggplant rounds on the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer.
- Place the sauce on top of the eggplant.
- Air fry for 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Broil for an extra 2 minutes for a crispier crust.
