Air-Fried Miso-Maple Eggplant with Toasted Sesame Quinoa
🔥

Air-Fried Miso-Maple Eggplant with Toasted Sesame Quinoa

Try our air-fried miso-maple eggplant with sesame quinoa for a nutritious, flavor-packed meal. Perfect for a healthy, vegan dinner.

Elevate your plant-based meals with this unique air-fried miso-maple eggplant, a deliciously innovative dish that showcases the rich umami flavors of fermented miso combined with the natural sweetness of maple syrup. Eggplant, a nutrient-dense vegetable packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, becomes irresistibly tender and flavorful when air-fried, making it a perfect centerpiece for this dish. This recipe pairs air-fried eggplant with a wholesome toasted sesame quinoa, offering a complete and satisfying meal. Quinoa, a protein-rich grain, complements the eggplant with its nutty flavor and fluffy texture. The combination of these ingredients not only provides a balanced array of nutrients but also delivers a delightful culinary experience. Embrace clean eating with this refreshing take on air fryer meals that promises to delight both your palate and your well-being.

Recipe Overview

🥗 Vegetarian
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
35 mins
Servings
4
Calories
420 kcal
per serving
Cuisine
Chinese

Try our air-fried miso-maple eggplant with sesame quinoa for a nutritious, flavor-packed meal. Perfect for a healthy, vegan dinner.

Ingredients

  • medium eggplants: 2, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • miso paste (white or yellow): 3 tablespoons
  • maple syrup: 2 tablespoons
  • soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): 2 tablespoons
  • sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
  • garlic cloves: 2, minced
  • quinoa: 1 cup
  • water: 2 cups
  • toasted sesame seeds: 2 tablespoons
  • green onions: 2, thinly sliced
  • red chili flakes: 1/2 teaspoon
  • lime: 1, cut into wedges
  • salt: to taste
Ingredients for Air-Fried Miso-Maple Eggplant with Toasted Sesame Quinoa

Instructions

  1. 1 Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2 In a large bowl, whisk together the miso paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic until well combined.
  3. 3 Add the cubed eggplant to the marinade, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  4. 4 While the eggplant marinates, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add the quinoa, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  5. 5 Arrange the marinated eggplant cubes in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and slightly caramelized.
  6. 6 In a serving bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Sprinkle with red chili flakes for an added kick.
  7. 7 Serve the air-fried miso-maple eggplant on top of the quinoa, garnished with lime wedges for a zesty finish.

Serving Suggestions

  • This air-fried miso-maple eggplant with toasted sesame quinoa makes a delightful main course that can be complemented with a side of steamed edamame or a crisp cucumber salad for added freshness. Pair it with a refreshing beverage like green tea or a chilled sparkling water infused with cucumber and mint for a complete meal experience. For a touch of indulgence, consider serving this dish with a dollop of creamy tahini sauce on the side. This adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory-sweet notes of the eggplant.

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, place the eggplant and quinoa in separate airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, you may use the microwave or quickly toss the eggplant in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain some of the crispness. Ensure the quinoa is heated thoroughly in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Ratings & Reviews

0.0
Based on 0 ratings

Rate this recipe