Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant (about 1 pound)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian seasoned)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Three shallow bowls
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
- Slice: Cut the eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds. You can also cut them into sticks if you prefer.
- Salt: Place the eggplant slices on a paper towel, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This draws out excess moisture and bitterness. Rinse and pat dry.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Breading: In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Eggplant
- Coat: Dip each eggplant slice in the flour, shaking off the excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Air Fry the Eggplant
- Arrange: Place the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with olive oil for added crispiness.
- Cook: Air fry for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooked, remove the eggplant from the air fryer and let it cool slightly.
- Serve hot, with marinara sauce for dipping or as a side dish alongside your favorite meal.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fried Eggplant
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Storage: Leftover fried eggplant can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Conclusion
Crispy air fryer fried eggplant is a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional frying. With its satisfying crunch and savory flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at your table!
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