Crispy Eggplant Katsu

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Crispy Eggplant Katsu

Here’s how to make it:⁠
⁠
You’ll need:⁠
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced lengthwise⁠
– 1/3 cup all-purpose flour⁠
– 1 tbsp cornstarch⁠
– 1/2 tsp salt⁠
– 1/3 cup water⁠
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs⁠
– Cooking spray⁠
– Steamed rice + spring onions + red chili to serve⁠
⁠
For the sauce:⁠
– 2 garlic cloves, minced⁠
– 1 inch ginger, minced⁠
– 2 tbsp peanut oil⁠
– 1/4 cup soy sauce⁠
– 4 tbsp water⁠
– 1 tsp brown sugar⁠
– 1 tbsp cornstarch⁠
– 1 tbsp vinegar⁠
⁠
Steps:⁠
1. Salt both sides of the eggplant slices. Lay on paper towel for 15 mins. Pat dry.⁠
2. In one bowl: mix flour, cornstarch, salt, and water until smooth.⁠
3. In another: pour in the panko.⁠
4. Dip eggplant in the batter, then coat in panko.⁠
5. Preheat Fritaire to 400°F.⁠
6. Place eggplant on the Air Stand, spray with oil on both sides.⁠
7. Air fry for 20 mins, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.⁠
8. Meanwhile: sauté garlic + ginger in peanut oil (1 min).⁠
9. Stir in the sauce ingredients, mix until thickened.⁠
10. Serve eggplant over rice, top with spring onions, red chili, and drizzle that sauce generously.⁠
⁠
✹ That’s crispy, cozy, and self-cleaning dinner vibes.⁠
⁠

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Irie Hansen is the co-founder of Fritaire and a mom who believes healthy cooking should actually be easy. She's passionate about non-toxic kitchens and loves testing new recipes, trying random things she finds online, and proving you don't need chemicals to make great food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Compact chamber + fast airflow.

That air fryers don’t use oil at all—most recipes still benefit from a small amount for texture and flavor.

An air fryer uses circulating hot air, while a deep fryer cooks food by fully submerging it in oil.

Air-frying typically uses less oil than deep frying, which can reduce overall fat intake.

No, air fryers are used by individuals, families, and meal preppers alike.

Air fryers are generally safe to run unattended but should be checked for doneness.

No — air fryers have become a long-term kitchen staple due to convenience and versatility.

Light cleaning after each use is recommended to prevent buildup and odors.

No — some liners can block airflow or contain materials not rated for high heat.

Air fryers can cook faster and crisp with less oil, but health depends on ingredients used.

Clean removable parts after use and wipe down non-removable components once cooled.

Rapid air circulation delivers consistent heat directly to the food’s surface.

Air fryers typically handle smaller batches due to size and airflow requirements.