Description
Crispy on the outside and buttery soft inside, this air fryer Chinese eggplant is coated in a savory balsamic garlic sauce. It’s quick, healthy, and naturally gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chinese eggplant (about 2 long ones)
- 1/2 tsp coarse sea salt
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 tbsp tapioca starch, divided
- Avocado oil spray
- Sauce:
- 1 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp aged balsamic vinegar
- 2 medium garlic cloves, grated
- Garnish:
- 1 spring onion, chopped
- Toasted white sesame seeds
- 3 Thai red chili peppers, sliced (optional)
Instructions
1. Cut the eggplant into wedges by holding your knife at a 45-degree angle and making 2-inch cuts, rolling the eggplant 90 degrees between cuts until finished.
2. (Optional) Sprinkle eggplant with salt, gently rub to coat, and let rest for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
3. Pat the eggplant dry and transfer to a bowl. Toss with avocado oil, then add tapioca starch one tablespoon at a time until evenly coated.
4. Spray the air fryer basket with oil, arrange eggplant in a single layer, and lightly spray the tops. Air fry at 400°F for 5 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
6. After 5 minutes, remove basket and brush eggplant with sauce. Reserve extra sauce for serving.
7. Lightly spray again with oil and air fry for an additional 3 minutes.
8. Let eggplant rest in the basket for 1 minute, then transfer to a plate.
9. Brush with more sauce and garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and chili peppers if desired. Serve warm with extra sauce.
Notes
Cut eggplant into slightly larger wedges (about 2 inches) to prevent mushiness.
Salting is optional but improves texture and flavor.
Handle gently when brushing sauce as the eggplant becomes delicate after cooking.
Chinese eggplants are naturally sweeter and less bitter than other varieties.
Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 174
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 361mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg