Introduction
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in various ways. One of the easiest and healthiest ways to enjoy eggplant is by frying it in an air fryer. In this article, we will share a simple recipe for fried eggplant in the air fryer, along with some tips and tricks to make it extra crispy and delicious. Whether you are a fan of eggplant or looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this recipe is perfect for you.
Ingredients
To make fried eggplant in the air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make delicious fried eggplant in your air fryer:
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
Start by washing the eggplant and cutting it into 1/4 inch thick slices. If you prefer, you can peel the skin off, but it is not necessary. Sprinkle some salt on the slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This will help remove any bitterness from the eggplant.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil. This will be the breading for the eggplant slices.
Step 3: Dip and Coat
Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten eggs, making sure to coat both sides. Then, press the slice into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Place the breaded slice on a plate or wire rack.
Step 4: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. While it is preheating, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Once preheated, arrange the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
Step 5: Cook and Flip
Cook the eggplant slices for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the fried eggplant slices from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a main course with some marinara sauce. Enjoy the crispy and flavorful goodness of your homemade air-fried eggplant!
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your fried eggplant in the air fryer:
- Experiment with different seasonings and spices to add more flavor to the breading.
- Try using panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
- Serve the fried eggplant with a side of tzatziki sauce or aioli for dipping.
- Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy twist.
- For a healthier option, use whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
Fried eggplant in the air fryer is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional deep-fried eggplant. With this simple recipe and some creativity, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful eggplant slices in no time. Whether you are following a specific diet or simply looking for a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this recipe is a must-try. So, grab your air fryer and start cooking some fried eggplant today!