Aubergine, known as eggplant in many parts of the world, is a versatile and nutrient-rich vegetable that shines in a variety of dishes. One delightful and simple way to prepare aubergine is by using an air fryer to create a delicious miso-glazed dish. Air frying gives the aubergine a crisp texture without the use of excessive oil, while the miso glaze adds a rich, umami flavour. This dish is not only tasty but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for any meal. Let's dive into the steps to make this delectable dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium aubergines
- 3 tablespoons of miso paste
- 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of mirin (rice wine)
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped spring onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Begin by washing the aubergines thoroughly under cool running water. Dry them with a clean kitchen towel.
- Cut the aubergines lengthwise into halves. Depending on their size, you may also want to cut them into quarters for quicker cooking.
- With the flesh side up, score the aubergine with a knife in a diamond pattern, being careful not to pierce through the skin. This will help the glaze to penetrate better and also assist in even cooking.
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
- In a bowl, mix together the miso paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth.
- Generously brush the miso mixture over the scored surface of the aubergine halves.
- Place the glazed aubergines in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the aubergine is tender and golden brown on top.
- Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two. This will help the glaze to set.
- Sprinkle the cooked aubergine with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This miso-glazed aubergine is exceptionally versatile. It can be served as a main dish over a bed of steamed rice or as a side dish accompanying other Asian-inspired meals. Additionally, it works wonderfully as part of a Buddha bowl, paired with quinoa and roasted vegetables.
Health Benefits:
Aubergines are low in calories and high in fiber, which can aid in digestion and weight management. They also contain antioxidants, including nasunin found in the skin, which is known to protect cells from damage. Miso, on the other hand, is rich in probiotics, which support gut health, and provides a good source of several essential nutrients.
Tips and Tricks:
- For an extra kick, consider adding a touch of crushed red pepper or sriracha to the glaze mixture.
- If you don't have an air fryer, you can bake the aubergines in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 25-30 minutes.
- Feel free to experiment with the glaze by adding a teaspoon of rice vinegar for a bit of acidity or a dash of soy sauce for added depth.
Embrace this easy-to-make and flavourful dish the next time you're looking for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of the creamy aubergine with the savory miso glaze is sure to become a favourite in your household.