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why make this recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Rounds are a delicious way to enjoy vegetables. They are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a great snack or side dish. It’s easy to make them healthier by using an air fryer, reducing the need for oil while still achieving that satisfying crunch. Plus, they pair perfectly with marinara sauce for dipping!
how to make Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Rounds
Ingredients:
- 1 eggplant
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Oil for spritzing
- Marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
Directions:
- Slice the eggplant into 1/4 inch thick rounds after washing and drying it.
- Prepare the breading mixture in three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of Panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, oregano, and salt.
- Bread the eggplant by coating each slice in flour, then in egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated at each step.
- Place the coated eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spritz with oil, and cook at 400ยฐF for 5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. To reheat, heat the air fryer to 350ยฐF and fry the eggplant rounds for 3-5 minutes until crispy again.
- Serve with marinara sauce if desired.
how to serve Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Rounds
These crispy eggplant rounds can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They taste great on their own or with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. You can also add them to salads or sandwiches for extra crunch and flavor.
how to store Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Rounds
To store the eggplant rounds, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the air fryer at 350ยฐF for 3-5 minutes until they are crispy again.
tips to make Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Rounds
- Choose firm and fresh eggplants for the best texture.
- Make sure to coat each round well in the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture to get a nice crust.
- Donโt overcrowd the air fryer basket; air needs to circulate for even cooking.
- Experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
variation
You can try adding different herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture, like garlic powder or Italian seasoning. For a spicy twist, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mix, or use different types of cheese, like mozzarella, for a unique taste.
FAQs
1. Can I bake the eggplant rounds instead of using the air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400ยฐF for about 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.
2. What if I donโt have Panko breadcrumbs?
You can use regular breadcrumbs, but Panko gives a crispier texture.
3. Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, you can use this same technique with zucchini, mushrooms, or even tomatoes for a tasty variation!
Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Rounds
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the eggplant into 1/4 inch thick rounds after washing and drying it.
- Prepare the breading mixture in three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of Panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, oregano, and salt.
- Bread the eggplant by coating each slice in flour, then in egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated at each step.
- Place the coated eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spritz with oil, and cook at 400ยฐF for 5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve with marinara sauce if desired.
- Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, heat the air fryer to 350ยฐF and fry the eggplant rounds for 3-5 minutes until crispy again.
