Cooking eggplant to perfection can be quite a challenge, but fear not, for my air fryer recipe ensures your success! With this foolproof method, you'll achieve tender and delicious Air Fryer Chinese Eggplant every time.
Prep Time 5minutes
Cook Time 20minutes
Servings 2
Calories 488kcal
Ingredients
2Eggplants
1tbspMinced garlic
1tbspSmall chili pepperoptional for spiciness
1tbspChili flakesadjust to your desired level of heat
1tbspSesame seeds
1tbspHot oilyou can use chili oil or any preferred hot oil
1tspOyster sauce
10gchopped green onion
Instructions
Preparing the Eggplants:
Begin by washing the eggplants thoroughly and cutting off both ends.
There's no need to slice the eggplants at this stage; we'll leave them whole to preserve their natural shape and make the process even simpler.
Air Frying the Eggplant:
Place the whole eggplants directly into the air fryer basket.
Once the eggplant is in the basket, brush the surface with oil, ensuring it is lightly coated.
Set the air fryer to 200 degrees Celsius (390 degrees Fahrenheit). Air fry the whole eggplant at this temperature for approximately 15 minutes.
Prepare the Garlic Sauce:
While the eggplant is air frying, take a moment to prepare the delectable garlic sauce. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, small chili pepper (if using), chili flakes, sesame seeds, hot oil, and oyster sauce. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to create a robust and aromatic sauce that will complement the eggplant's natural flavors.
Add the Garlic Sauce:
Once the eggplant is done air frying, make a lengthwise cut in the middle, and then use a fork or chopsticks to gently open and flatten it.
Spread the prepared garlic sauce generously over the top of the eggplant, ensuring it seeps into the cuts and covers the surface.
Return it to the air fryer and air fry at 180 degrees Celsius for an additional 5 minutes to further enhance the flavors and achieve the perfect finishing touch.
To elevate the flavors of the Air Fryer Chinese Eggplant even further, sprinkle 10g of chopped green onion over the dish before serving.