Air Fryer Miso Glazed Eggplant with Sesame Crunch
Discover the savory delight of Air Fryer Miso Glazed Eggplant—crispy, umami-rich, and perfect for a quick vegetarian meal. Try it now!
Recipe Overview
Discover the savory delight of Air Fryer Miso Glazed Eggplant—crispy, umami-rich, and perfect for a quick vegetarian meal. Try it now!
Ingredients
- • medium-sized eggplants: 2
- • olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- • white miso paste: 3 tablespoons
- • mirin: 2 tablespoons
- • soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- • maple syrup: 1 tablespoon
- • garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- • sesame seeds: 2 tablespoons
- • chopped green onions: 2 tablespoons
- • red chili flakes: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
- 1 Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This ensures that your eggplant pieces cook evenly and achieve a crispy exterior right from the start.
- 2 Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds and brush both sides with olive oil. This step is crucial as it helps the eggplants become tender and prevents sticking.
- 3 In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, mirin, soy sauce, maple syrup, and minced garlic until smooth. This glaze will infuse the eggplant with rich umami flavors.
- 4 Arrange the eggplant slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap for even cooking. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for uniform crispiness.
- 5 After 10 minutes, brush each eggplant slice generously with the miso glaze and air fry for an additional 5 minutes. This caramelizes the glaze, creating a sweet-savory crust.
- 6 Once cooked, remove the eggplant slices and sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and red chili flakes, if using. The sesame seeds add a nutty crunch, while the green onions provide freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- • This Miso Glazed Eggplant is perfectly complemented by a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, which will absorb the sweet and savory glaze beautifully. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and a touch of sesame oil. For a refreshing beverage pairing, a chilled glass of sake or a light, fruity white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc highlights the dish's umami flavors. Alternatively, a sparkling water with a splash of lime can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall dining experience.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, place the cooled eggplant slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to two months; just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. When reheating, use the air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for 5-7 minutes to revive their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the eggplant to become soggy. For added freshness, sprinkle a few more sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
