A Healthy and Easy-to-Make Crispy Eggplant Chips Recipe, Perfect for Air Frying
Eggplant, also known as aubergine in the UK, is a versatile vegetable that’s perfect for creating healthy snacks, and one of the tastiest options is turning them into crispy chips. In this article, we will dive into a step-by-step guide to making air-fried eggplant chips that are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits.
Why Choose Eggplant Chips?
Eggplant chips are a brilliant alternative to traditional potato crisps. They offer a lower calorie content and are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, thiamine, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, fibre, folic acid, and potassium. The air frying method further ensures that you get that desired crispiness without the excessive oil used in deep frying.
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant (aubergine)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplant: Wash and dry the eggplant. Slice it into thin, even slices using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. Aim for around 1/4 inch thickness for the perfect chip.
- Season the Slices: Place the slices in a mixing bowl. Add olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the slices gently to ensure even coating. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle nutritional yeast over the slices.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 3 minutes.
-
Arrange and Cook: Place the seasoned eggplant slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
- Set the Cooking Time: Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides crisp evenly. Watch closely in the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once done, transfer the chips to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let them cool for a few minutes to enhance the crisp factor.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy eggplant chips can be served alone or with a variety of dips such as hummus, guacamole, or a yogurt-based dip for a refreshing complement. They also make a perfect side for sandwiches or as a topping for salads.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Eggplant Chips
- Uniform Slices: Ensure slices are evenly cut for consistent cooking.
- Do Not Overcrowd: Keeping space between slices is essential for air circulation and even cooking.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add different spices such as cumin or curry powder for a flavour twist.
Nutritional Benefits of Eggplant Chips
Eggplants are rich in antioxidants such as nasunin and chlorogenic acid, known for fighting inflammation and promoting heart health. Incorporating eggplant chips into your diet is an excellent way to enjoy a crunchy snack while benefiting from its nutritional values.
Storage Tips
If you have leftover chips, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their crunch. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes if they become slightly soft.
With this simple method for air-fried eggplant chips, you can enjoy a healthy snack full of flavour and texture. Whether you're hosting a get-together or simply craving a nutritious snack, these chips are sure to satisfy.