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Air Fryer Miso Eggplant Recipe

Air Fryer Miso Eggplant

Tender Japanese or globe eggplant glazed with a sweet-savory miso sauce, cooked in an air fryer for perfectly caramelized edges and a silky interior. Healthy, quick, and packed with umami flavor.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 Servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian Fusion, Japanese
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium Japanese or globe eggplants
  • 2 tbsp white miso paste or 1 tbsp red miso
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil or olive/avocado oil
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 clove garlic minced

Method
 

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice eggplants in half lengthwise and score the flesh in a diamond pattern, being careful not to pierce the skin.
  3. In a small bowl, combine miso paste, sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, soy sauce, and minced garlic to create a glaze.
  4. Brush the glaze generously over the scored flesh of the eggplants.
  5. Place eggplants in the air fryer basket with space between pieces.
  6. Air fry for 10 minutes until edges are caramelized and the interior is soft and silky. Flip and cook an additional 2–3 minutes if needed for even caramelization.
  7. Serve warm as a side dish, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.

Notes

Fresh, firm eggplants produce the best texture and flavor. Adjust sweetness of the glaze to taste by increasing or decreasing maple syrup. For thicker miso paste, add a splash of water or sake to brush easily. Works for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets with minor substitutions. Serve immediately for the best texture; reheating may soften edges slightly.