This Air Fryer Aubergine is a delicious way to enjoy eggplant. It’s an easy recipe using just a few simple ingredients you can find in most stores. Aubergine in the air fryer is a healthy, quick, and low-carb option for a snack or side dish.
Recipe Difficulty – Very Easy
Table of Contents
- Why this recipe works
- Ingredients to make Air Fryer Aubergine
- Substitutions
- Variations
- How to make Air Fryer Aubergine
- Leftovers
- Recipe FAQs
- More Aubergine recipes
- You might also like
- Rate it…
- Air Fryer Aubergine Recipe
Why this recipe works
Air fryer recipes are ideal when you want fast, flavorful results with minimal fuss. This air fryer aubergine develops crisp edges while staying soft and creamy inside. The quick cook time and simple seasoning make it an easy side dish everyone will enjoy.
If you’re new to cooking eggplant, this recipe is approachable and forgiving. The flavors here lean toward an Asian profile, but small adjustments let it pair well with a variety of main dishes. Give it a try — it’s an effortless addition to your weeknight rotation.
Ingredients to make Air Fryer Aubergine
- Aubergines (eggplant) – the main ingredient.
- Tamari or soy sauce – for umami depth.
- Maple syrup – a touch of sweetness.
- Sesame oil – for a nutty aroma.
- Sesame seeds – for texture and finish.
- Fresh parsley – optional garnish to brighten the dish.
See the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Substitutions
- Tamari or soy sauce: Replace with liquid aminos if you prefer.
- Flavourings: Swap the Asian-style seasonings for garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, black pepper, or kosher salt for a different profile.
- Sesame oil: Use a neutral, high smoke point oil such as avocado oil or light olive oil if changing the flavor profile.
- Sesame seeds: For crunch with a different texture, try panko breadcrumbs.
Variations
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili paste to the sauce.
- Deluxe: Finish with extra chopped parsley or a citrus squeeze for brightness.
- Kid friendly: Tone down strong flavors and serve with marinara or ketchup for dipping.
How to make Air Fryer Aubergine
Step 1: Trim the stem end from the aubergines and slice them into long “chip” shapes. You should get roughly nine pieces per aubergine.
Step 2: Place the aubergine slices in a large bowl and add tamari (or soy), maple syrup, and sesame oil. Toss gently until each piece is coated.
Step 3: Arrange the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 200°C (390°F) for about 6 minutes. Reserve any leftover sauce in a small bowl for dipping.
Use tongs to transfer the cooked aubergine to a plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped parsley if using, and serve with the reserved sauce.
Hint: Avoid overcrowding the basket. Cook in batches if necessary so hot air circulates and the pieces crisp up evenly.
Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture; the microwave works but won’t keep them as crisp.
Recipe FAQs
If aubergine tends to be soggy, try salting the sliced pieces and letting them sit for about an hour to draw out excess moisture. Rinse, pat dry, then proceed with the recipe.
Yes. The oven will work, though the texture may differ slightly. The air fryer typically produces crisper edges and cooks faster, but oven-roasted aubergine will still be tasty.
More Aubergine recipes
- Aubergine Salad
- Aubergine Bake
- Aubergine Curry
- Aubergine Miso
- Peanut Butter Aubergines
- Vegan Moussaka
- Aubergine Parmigiana
- Roasted Aubergine
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Rate it…
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Air Fryer Aubergine
Ingredients
- 2 aubergines
- 2 tbsp tamari, or soy sauce
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Sprinkle of sesame seeds
- Chopped parsley, optional
Instructions
-
Trim the stem end from the aubergines and slice into long “chip” shapes. Aim for about nine pieces per aubergine.
-
Place the slices in a large bowl with tamari (or soy), maple syrup and sesame oil. Toss until evenly coated.
-
Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 200°C (390°F) for about 6 minutes. Reserve any leftover sauce for dipping.
-
Remove, plate, and finish with sesame seeds and optional parsley. Serve with the reserved sauce.
Notes
Substitutions & Variations: Options are listed above in the post.
To Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispness.
To Freeze: Freeze for up to 4 months in an airtight container. Defrost in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Tip 1: Cooking times vary with slice thickness and air fryer model.
Tip 2: Place cooked aubergine on paper towels to absorb excess oil if desired.
Tip 3: Experiment with seasonings or finish with grated parmesan or melted mozzarella for a different take.