This Hearty Eggplant Slices Appetizer is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect as a starter or side. Made with just six ingredients, these air-fried eggplant slices are tender, savory, and slightly sweet with a hint of spice. Completely vegan and gluten-free, they pair beautifully with steamed rice or as a light snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free – A plant-based appetizer that fits most diets.
- Savory & Slightly Sweet – A perfect balance of flavors with soy sauce, garlic, and chili oil.
- Great Side or Snack – Enjoy as an appetizer, side dish, or with rice.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon chili oil
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
Directions
- Prepare the Eggplant – Wash and slice the eggplant into ½-inch rounds or long strips, depending on your preference.
- Make the Sauce – In a small bowl, mix garlic, soy sauce, avocado oil, chili oil, and sugar until well combined.
- Coat the Eggplant – Toss the eggplant slices in the sauce mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer – Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 2-3 minutes.
- Air Fry the Eggplant – Arrange the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
- Serve & Enjoy – Transfer to a plate and serve warm. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Extra Crispy – Sprinkle a light dusting of cornstarch on the eggplant before air frying.
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or more chili oil for extra heat.
- Sesame Flavor – Drizzle toasted sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds before serving.
- Grilled Option – Grill the eggplant slices instead of air frying for a smoky taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of eggplant?
Yes! This recipe works well with Japanese, Chinese, or Italian eggplants.
Do I need to salt the eggplant before air frying?
Not necessary, but if you want to reduce bitterness, sprinkle salt over the slices and let them sit for 10 minutes before patting them dry.
Can I use olive oil instead of avocado oil?
Yes, but avocado oil has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for air frying.
What can I serve with air fryer eggplant?
It pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, or as a side dish for tofu or stir-fries.
How do I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce or omit the chili oil and replace it with sesame oil for a milder version.
Can I bake this instead of using an air fryer?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I make the eggplant extra crispy?
Coat the slices lightly with cornstarch before air frying or baking.
Can I use coconut sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, coconut sugar works as a great alternative for a slightly caramelized flavor.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes! Make a batch and store it in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer before serving.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Add tofu, tempeh, or grilled chicken for a protein boost.
Conclusion
This Hearty Eggplant Slices Appetizer is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy meal. With a deliciously crispy texture and bold flavors, it’s a must-try for eggplant lovers. Serve it with rice, noodles, or as a side to your favorite Asian-inspired dishes. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying, plant-based meal!
Print
Hearty Eggplant Slices Appetizer
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These hearty eggplant slices are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with bold flavors. Made with garlic, soy sauce, and chili oil, this vegan and gluten-free appetizer is quick, easy, and perfect for pairing with steamed rice or serving as a snack. Ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
Produce:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
Condiments & Oils:
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tbsp chili oil (adjust for spice level)
Baking & Spices:
- 2 tbsp white sugar
Instructions
1. Prep the Eggplant:
- Cut the eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Make the Marinade:
- In a bowl, mix garlic, soy sauce, white sugar, avocado oil, and chili oil.
- Toss the eggplant slices in the marinade until well coated.
3. Cook the Eggplant:
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
Pan-Fried Method:
- Heat 1 tbsp avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook eggplant slices for 3–4 minutes per side, until soft and caramelized.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
- Drizzle with extra chili oil if desired.
- Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions (optional).
- Serve hot with steamed rice or as an appetizer!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, lightly coat the eggplant with cornstarch before cooking.
- Want it sweeter? Add a little more sugar to balance the heat.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes or pan-fry until heated through.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer, Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian, Filipino
