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Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan | Sugar & Cinnamon

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that has been loved by many for generations. However, traditional recipes often involve deep frying, which can make it a bit heavy. Enter the air fryer—this kitchen gadget allows you to achieve that desired crispy texture without the excess oil. In this article, we’ll explore how to make a delightful Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan that is not only healthier but also incredibly tasty.

Why Choose Air Frying?

Air frying is a revolutionary cooking method that circulates hot air around the food, producing a crispy exterior while retaining moisture inside. This cooking technique significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, making it a more health-conscious way to enjoy typically fried foods. Preparing Eggplant Parmesan in an air fryer helps keep calories in check while delivering that satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

For the Eggplant:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1cm round discs
• Salt, for sweating the eggplant
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Assembly:

• 500g marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 200g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Start by preparing the eggplant. Slice the eggplants into 1cm rounds and place them in a colander. Sprinkle them generously with salt to remove excess moisture and bitterness. Allow them to sweat for about 30 minutes, then rinse the slices under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel. This step is crucial for achieving a delightful texture and reducing bitterness.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Prepare three shallow dishes for the breading process. In the first dish, place the flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, and a little more black pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Eggplant

Dredge each eggplant slice in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any surplus to drip off. Finally, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure even coverage. Repeat this process for all eggplant slices.

Step 4: Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F). Once heated, arrange the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Lightly spray the slices with cooking spray to encourage crispiness. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Assemble the Parmesan

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the air-fried eggplant slices, followed by half of the remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a generous topping of cheese.

Step 6: Final Air Frying

Return the assembled Eggplant Parmesan to the air fryer. Cook at the same temperature for about 7-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

Step 7: Serving

Once done, carefully remove the dish from the air fryer. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil. Slice and serve warm, perhaps with a side of your favourite salad or crusty bread.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan offers an enticing blend of flavours and textures while being a healthier alternative to the traditional method. By incorporating the air frying technique, you can enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that will impress family and friends alike. With its crispy eggplant, rich marinara, and gooey cheese, this dish is a comforting classic redefined for the modern kitchen. So dust off your air fryer and indulge in this delightful recipe from Sugar & Cinnamon—you won’t regret it!

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