How to airfry eggplant?

How to Airfry Eggplant: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Airfrying has become a popular cooking method in recent years, and for good reason. It’s a healthier alternative to deep-frying, requiring minimal oil and producing delicious results. One vegetable that airfries incredibly well is the humble eggplant. In this article, we’ll explore how to airfry eggplant to perfection.

Preparing the Eggplant

Before you start airfrying, you need to prepare the eggplant. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choosing the right eggplant: Look for an eggplant that is firm and has a glossy, smooth skin. Avoid eggplants that are soft or have wrinkles.
• Washing and drying: Wash the eggplant under cold running water, then pat it dry with a paper towel. This will help remove any dirt or debris.
• Slicing: Slice the eggplant into the desired thickness. For airfrying, you want to slice it about 1/4 inch thick.

Seasoning the Eggplant

Now that you have your eggplant prepared, it’s time to add some flavor. Here are a few ways you can season your eggplant:

• Salt and pepper: The classic seasoning combo. Simply sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the eggplant slices.
• Garlic and herbs: Mix minced garlic with dried or fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Sprinkle the mixture on both sides of the eggplant slices.
• Olive oil and lemon: Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil, then sprinkle with lemon zest and juice.
• Breading: Mix together breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. Dip the eggplant slices in the mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Airfrying the Eggplant

Now it’s time to airfry the eggplant. Here’s what you need to do:

• Preheat: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook: Place the eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and lightly browned. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Check: Check the eggplant for doneness. If it’s not tender, continue cooking in 1-2 minute increments until it’s cooked to your liking.
• Drain: Once the eggplant is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess moisture.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind:

• Doneness: Check the eggplant frequently to ensure it doesn’t overcook. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be at least 165°F (74°C).
• Marinades: Try marinating the eggplant slices in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs and spices before airfrying.
• Glazes: Brush the eggplant slices with a sweet and sticky glaze made from honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar during the last minute of cooking.
• Crunchy coating: Sprinkle crushed nuts or seeds, such as pistachios or sesame seeds, on top of the eggplant slices for a crunchy coating.

Comparison to Other Cooking Methods

So how does airfrying compare to other cooking methods? Here are a few key points to consider:

Conclusion

Airfrying eggplant is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and healthy dish. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a crispy exterior and a tender interior, all while minimizing the use of oil. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, airfrying is a great way to get started with eggplant. So next time you’re thinking of cooking eggplant, consider giving airfrying a try!