Ingredients Overview
Flour (1 cup)
Flour serves as the initial coating for the eggplant slices, helping the egg and breadcrumb mixture adhere properly. While all-purpose flour is commonly used, you can also opt for whole wheat flour for an added nutritional boost, as it provides more fiber and nutrients.
Eggs (4)
Eggs are used to create a binding layer for the breadcrumbs. They are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, riboflavin, and selenium. Beating the eggs thoroughly ensures an even coating and helps the breadcrumbs stick to the eggplant slices.
Salt (to taste)
Salt enhances the flavor of the dish. It’s important to use it sparingly to avoid excessive sodium intake, but a pinch can make a significant difference in taste.
Bread Crumbs (cups)
Breadcrumbs provide the crispy outer layer that makes this dish so appealing. You can use store-bought breadcrumbs or make your own by toasting and crushing stale bread. For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs, which add fiber and nutrients.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)
Italian seasoning blends herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, adding a rich, aromatic flavor to the breading. This seasoning enhances the overall taste of the dish and pairs well with the eggplant.
Eggplants (sliced)
Eggplants are the star of this dish. They have a high fibre content, vitamin and mineral content, and little calories.. Eggplants also contain antioxidants, such as nasunin, which protects cells from damage. When air-fried, eggplants develop a satisfying texture that’s both tender and slightly crispy.
Garlic Cloves (2, sliced)
Garlic adds a robust flavor to the dish. It’s known for its numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, and its ability to boost the immune system. Sliced garlic infuses the eggplant with its rich aroma and taste.
Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
Parsley is more than just a garnish; it adds a fresh, vibrant flavor and is packed with vitamins A, C, and K. Chopped parsley sprinkled over the finished dish provides a burst of color and enhances the overall presentation.
Cooking Spray
Cooking spray is used to coat the air fry basket, which keeps the eggplant slices from sticking.. It also helps achieve a golden brown, crispy finish without the need for excessive oil.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Air Fry Basket
Begin by coating the air fry basket with cooking spray. This step ensures that the eggplant slices do not stick to the basket, allowing for even cooking and easy cleanup.
Step 2: Preparing the Coating Stations
Set up three stations for coating the eggplant slices:
1. Flour Plate: Place 1 cup of flour on a plate. This will be the initial coating on the eggplant slices.
2. Egg Mixture In a shallow bowl, whisk the 4 eggs with a pinch of salt. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the eggplant.
3. Breadcrumb Mixture: Put the breadcrumbs and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning in a different small dish.. This will form the crispy outer layer of the eggplant slices.
Step 3: Coating the Eggplant Slices
Make sure to completely cover each slice of aubergine with flour after dredging it. Next, dip the flour-coated slice into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the egg-coated slice into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated with breadcrumbs. Repeat this process for all eggplant slices.
Step 4: Arranging the Eggplant Slices
Lay the coated eggplant slices in the air fry basket in a single layer. Avoid overlapping the slices to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Step 5: Air Frying
Place the basket in the air fryer and select the air fry setting. Set the temperature to 390ºF (199ºC) and the timer for 12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the eggplant slices to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. When the cooking is complete, the eggplant slices should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
After the eggplant slices are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish.Sprinkle the chopped parsley and sliced garlic over top. The parsley adds a fresh, herbal note, while the garlic provides a savory, aromatic finish.
Nutritional Information Breakdown
It’s essential to know what nutrients are in your food if you want to keep your diet balanced. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the air-fried eggplant’s nutritional profile:
Calories – 874 kcal
This dish provides a substantial amount of energy, making it suitable as a main meal. The calories come from a balanced mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, offering sustained energy.
Protein – 79g
It’s essential to know what nutrients are in your food if you want to keep your diet balanced. With 79 grams of protein, this dish is an excellent source for those looking to increase their protein intake, making it ideal for athletes or individuals on high-protein diets.
Fat – 37g
The fats in this recipe come primarily from the eggs and cooking spray. These fats are necessary for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins and providing energy. While 37 grams of fat may seem high, it’s important to remember that fats are a crucial part of a balanced diet.
Carbohydrates – 15g
The carbohydrates in this dish are primarily from the flour and breadcrumbs. These provide a quick source of energy and are necessary for maintaining blood sugar levels. The dish’s overall carbohydrate content is moderate, making it suitable for those monitoring their carb intake.
Health Benefits of the Air-Fried Eggplant
Rich in Antioxidants
Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, including nasunin and chlorogenic acid. These compounds help protect the body against free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and inflammation.
High in Fiber
This dish provides a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullnessIt’s essential to know what nutrients are in your food if you want to keep your diet balanced.
Low in Calories
Despite being low in calories, eggplants are nutrient-dense, providing essential vitamins and minerals without excess calories. This makes the dish suitable for those aiming to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Supports Heart Health
The ingredients used in this recipe, particularly the garlic and parsley, are known for their heart-healthy properties. Garlic can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, while parsley is rich in antioxidants that support cardiovascular health.
Variations and Tips
Alternative Coatings
For a different flavor profile, consider using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or mixing in grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs. You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as smoked paprika or cumin, to change the dish’s flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This air-fried eggplant pairs well with a variety of dips and sauces. Serve it with marinara sauce for a classic combination or a tangy yogurt dip for a refreshing contrast. It also makes a great addition to salads or as a side dish for grilled meats.
Making it Vegan
To make this dish vegan, substitute the eggs with a plant-based alternative, such as a flaxseed or chia seed egg. Use vegan butter or oil spray to coat the air fry basket and opt for vegan breadcrumbs.
User Experience and Testimonials
Many users have praised the air-fried eggplant recipe for its simplicity and delicious results.These are a few recurring topics seen in user comments:
Easy and Quick
Users love how quickly this dish can be prepared, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time. The straightforward steps and minimal preparation time are highly appreciated.
Crispy and Flavorful
The air frying method ensures that the eggplant slices are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Users enjoy the flavorful combination of the Italian seasoning and the fresh parsley and garlic garnish.
Healthier Alternative
Many users appreciate that this recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried eggplant. The reduced oil content and the use of the air fryer make it a lighter, yet equally satisfying, dish.
How long to bake eggplant slices?
Your aubergine will take 25 to 30 minutes to cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Just remember to turn your pieces over after the initial fifteen minutes. Your cooked aubergine slices should be softened and slightly brown when they’re done. If you bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, it will take 30–35 minutes.
Calories in a bake eggplant slice with olive oil?
The calories for the entire aubergine that has been tossed in three tablespoons of olive oil are given below. A large aubergine (1 pound) produces 8-10 slices of aubergine rounds, depending on its size.