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Air-Fried Eggplant & Chickpea Koftas with Fresh Mint Yogurt Sauce
Discover the magic of air-fried eggplant koftas with chickpeas, bursting with flavor and paired with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce. Perfect for clean eating!
Transform your kitchen with the aromatic flavors of the Middle East, reimagined in a health-conscious way using your trusty air fryer. Our Air-Fried Eggplant & Chickpea Koftas are a delightful fusion of tender eggplant and protein-rich chickpeas, shaped into delectable koftas that are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. This recipe not only celebrates clean eating but also makes the most of nutrient-dense ingredients, providing a satisfying meal packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins.
The air fryer is a game-changer in healthy cooking, allowing you to achieve that perfect crispy texture with minimal oil, preserving the natural flavors and nutrients of your ingredients. Paired with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce, these koftas offer a burst of flavor that will transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched Mediterranean bazaar. Indulge in this unique, plant-forward dish that seamlessly blends convenience, nutrition, and taste.
Recipe Overview
🥗 Vegetarian
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Time
45 mins
Servings
4
Calories
380 kcal
per serving
Cuisine
Mediterranean
Discover the magic of air-fried eggplant koftas with chickpeas, bursting with flavor and paired with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce. Perfect for clean eating!
Ingredients
- • eggplant: 1 medium, peeled and diced
- • chickpeas: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- • onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- • garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- • parsley: 1/2 cup, chopped
- • cumin: 1 teaspoon
- • coriander: 1 teaspoon
- • smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- • salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- • black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- • chickpea flour: 2 tablespoons
- • olive oil: 2 teaspoons
- • Greek yogurt: 1 cup
- • fresh mint: 1/4 cup, chopped
- • lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- 1 Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- 2 In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil and sauté the diced eggplant for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Allow it to cool slightly.
- 3 In a food processor, combine the sautéed eggplant, chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until well combined but still slightly chunky.
- 4 Transfer the mixture to a bowl and mix in the chickpea flour. Shape the mixture into small koftas, about the size of a golf ball.
- 5 Lightly brush or spray the koftas with the remaining olive oil. Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- 6 While the koftas are cooking, prepare the mint yogurt sauce by mixing the Greek yogurt, fresh mint, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with a pinch of salt to taste.
- 7 Serve the koftas hot, drizzled with the mint yogurt sauce. Enjoy the flavors and textures of this deliciously healthy dish!
Serving Suggestions
- • These Air-Fried Eggplant & Chickpea Koftas pair beautifully with a fresh tabbouleh salad made from bulgur, tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, and lemon juice. For a complete meal, serve alongside a warm whole grain pita and a side of roasted red pepper hummus for dipping. To complement the vibrant flavors, consider a chilled glass of sparkling water with a splash of pomegranate juice, garnished with a sprig of mint. For an extra burst of freshness, garnish the koftas with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds or sliced radishes. This dish is ideal for an al fresco dining experience, offering a balanced meal that's both nutritious and satisfying.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, place the cooled koftas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The mint yogurt sauce should be stored separately in a sealed container in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 2 days to maintain its freshness. To reheat the koftas, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crispy texture.
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