This Air Fryer Eggplant recipe is one of the easiest and most flavorful ways to enjoy eggplant. With just six simple ingredients, this plant-based dish is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and chili oil creates a savory, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy glaze that pairs beautifully with steamed rice. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a great addition to any meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free – A plant-based dish packed with flavor.
- Crispy & Tender – The air fryer gives the eggplant a perfect texture without excess oil.
- Versatile – Enjoy it as a side dish, over rice, or as a filling for wraps and bowls.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon chili oil
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
Directions
- Prepare the Eggplant – Wash and slice the eggplant into ½-inch rounds or long strips, depending on your preference.
- Make the Sauce – In a small bowl, mix the garlic, soy sauce, avocado oil, chili oil, and sugar until well combined.
- Coat the Eggplant – Toss the eggplant slices in the sauce mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer – Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 2-3 minutes.
- Air Fry the Eggplant – Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
- Serve & Enjoy – Transfer to a plate and serve warm. Pair with steamed rice or enjoy as a side dish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Extra Crispy – Sprinkle a light dusting of cornstarch on the eggplant before air frying for a crispier texture.
- Spicy Kick – Increase the amount of chili oil or add red pepper flakes.
- Sesame Flavor – Drizzle toasted sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds before serving.
- Miso Glaze – Mix in 1 tablespoon of miso paste for an umami boost.
- Lemon Zest – Add a bit of fresh lemon zest for a bright, citrusy touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Not recommended as eggplant tends to lose its texture when frozen.
- Reheating – Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness. Alternatively, microwave for 30 seconds if in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of eggplant?
Yes! This recipe works well with Japanese, Chinese, or Italian eggplants.
Do I need to salt the eggplant before air frying?
Not necessary, but if you want to reduce bitterness, sprinkle salt over the slices and let them sit for 10 minutes before patting them dry.
Can I use olive oil instead of avocado oil?
Yes, but avocado oil has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for air frying.
What can I serve with air fryer eggplant?
It pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, or as a filling for wraps and sandwiches.
How do I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce or omit the chili oil and replace it with sesame oil for a milder version.
Can I bake this instead of using an air fryer?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I make the eggplant extra crispy?
Coat the slices lightly with cornstarch or panko breadcrumbs before air frying.
Can I use coconut sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, coconut sugar works as a great alternative for a slightly caramelized flavor.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes! Make a batch and store it in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer before serving.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Add tofu, tempeh, or grilled chicken for a protein boost.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Eggplant is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy meal. With a deliciously crispy texture and bold flavors, it’s a must-try for eggplant lovers. Serve it with rice, noodles, or as a side to your favorite Asian-inspired dishes. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying, plant-based meal!
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Air Fryer Eggplant
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Vegan
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Asian, Filipino
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Air Fryer Eggplant is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with savory garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of spice. A quick and easy vegan dish, this recipe is perfect with steamed rice or as a flavorful side. Made with just 6 simple ingredients, it’s ready in 20 minutes!
Ingredients
Produce:
- 1 large eggplant, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
Condiments & Oils:
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tbsp chili oil (adjust for spice level)
Baking & Spices:
- 2 tbsp white sugar
Instructions
1. Prep the Eggplant:
- Cut the eggplant into bite-sized pieces.
- Sprinkle with a little salt and let sit for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Make the Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, garlic, avocado oil, chili oil, and sugar.
3. Coat & Air Fry:
- Toss the eggplant pieces in the sauce until well coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange eggplant in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions (optional).
- Serve hot with steamed rice or as a side dish.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, lightly coat the eggplant with cornstarch before air frying.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less chili oil.
- Use other oils like olive oil if you don’t have avocado oil.
- Pairs well with tofu, grilled meats, or as a topping for noodle bowls.
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