The Ultimate Guide: How to Cook Aubergine in an Air Fryer for Perfect Results Every Time

The air fryer has become a kitchen staple for many, offering a healthier and faster alternative to deep frying. But did you know you can also achieve crispy, flavorful results with vegetables like aubergine? Learning how to cook aubergine in air fryer unlocks a world of possibilities, from savory side dishes to delicious vegetarian meals.

Why Air Fry Aubergine?

Air frying aubergine presents several advantages over traditional methods:

• Crispy Texture: The circulating hot air in the air fryer creates a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil.
• Reduced Fat: Compared to deep frying, air frying uses significantly less oil, making it a healthier choice.
• Fast Cooking: Air fryers cook food much faster than ovens, saving you time and energy.
• Easy Cleanup: The removable air fryer basket makes cleanup a breeze.

Preparing Your Aubergine

Before you delve into air frying, proper preparation is key. Follow these steps to ensure your aubergine is ready to cook:

1. Choose the Right Aubergine: Opt for firm aubergines with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid aubergines that are soft or have bruises.
2. Wash and Dry: Rinse the aubergine under cold water and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Cut and Slice: Depending on your recipe, cut the aubergine into cubes, slices, or wedges.
4. Salt and Drain: Sprinkle salt generously over the cut aubergine and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, resulting in crispier results.
5. Pat Dry Again: After salting, pat the aubergine dry with a paper towel to remove any remaining moisture.

Air Frying Techniques

Now that your aubergine is prepped, let’s explore different air frying techniques:

1. Simple Roasted Aubergine

This method is perfect for a basic side dish or as a base for other recipes.

• Ingredients:
• 1 medium aubergine, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss the aubergine cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Place the aubergine in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
• Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and tender.

2. Balsamic Glazed Aubergine

For a sweet and savory flavor, try this balsamic glaze variation.

• Ingredients:
• 1 medium aubergine, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
• Brush the aubergine slices with the mixture.
• Place the slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
• Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.

3. Spicy Aubergine Bites

These bite-sized pieces are perfect for appetizers or a snack.

• Ingredients:
• 1 medium aubergine, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss the aubergine cubes with olive oil, chili powder, cumin powder, salt, and pepper.
• Place the cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
• Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

Tips for Air Frying Aubergine

• Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure the aubergine pieces are in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking.
• Shake the Basket: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure all sides are evenly browned.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of your aubergine pieces.
• Adjust Seasonings: Experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to create unique flavors.

Beyond Side Dishes: Aubergine in Air Fryer Recipes

The versatility of air-fried aubergine extends beyond simple sides. Here are some recipe ideas:

• Aubergine Parmesan: Layer air-fried aubergine slices with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese for a delicious vegetarian take on a classic dish.
• Aubergine and Chickpea Curry: Combine air-fried aubergine with chickpeas, spices, and coconut milk for a flavorful and satisfying curry.
• Aubergine Baba Ganoush: Blend air-fried aubergine with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for a creamy and flavorful dip.
• Aubergine Pizza Topping: Use air-fried aubergine slices as a unique and flavorful pizza topping.

The End of the Line: Aubergine Air Fryer Success

Mastering how to cook aubergine in air fryer opens a world of possibilities for healthy, delicious meals. From crispy side dishes to flavorful main courses, the air fryer allows you to enjoy this versatile vegetable in new and exciting ways.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Can I use frozen aubergine in the air fryer?

It’s not recommended to use frozen aubergine directly in the air fryer. Frozen aubergine tends to release a lot of moisture, potentially making the air fryer steamy and affecting the crispy texture.

2. How do I know if my aubergine is cooked?

The aubergine is cooked when it’s tender and slightly browned on the outside. You can also test it by inserting a fork into the center. If it goes in easily, it’s cooked.

3. Can I air fry aubergine with other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can air fry aubergine alongside other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or squash for a colorful and flavorful side dish.

4. What happens if I don’t salt the aubergine before air frying?

Leaving out the salting step may result in a slightly less crispy aubergine. The salt helps draw out excess moisture, contributing to a crispier texture.

5. Can I use different oils for air frying aubergine?

While olive oil is a common choice, you can experiment with other healthy oils like avocado oil or coconut oil. Just ensure the oil has a high smoke point to avoid burning.