A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Aubergine Meatball Skewers Recipe, Perfect for Air Frying
Aubergine meatball skewers are a delightful vegetarian alternative to traditional meat skewers. They are packed with flavour, simple to make, and can be conveniently prepared in an air fryer for a crispy exterior. Let's explore how you can craft these culinary delights in your own kitchen!
Introduction to Aubergine Meatballs
Aubergines, also known as eggplants, are an excellent base for meatball recipes due to their meaty texture and ability to absorb flavours. In the UK, aubergines are available year-round and can easily be found in your local grocery store.
Ingredients
- 2 large aubergines
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg
- Olive oil spray
- Skewers
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Aubergines
Begin by washing and drying your aubergines. Dice them into small pieces and spread them on a baking tray. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes. This process helps to remove excess moisture and bitterness from the aubergines.
Step 2: Cook the Aubergine Pieces
Rinse the salted aubergine pieces and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add the aubergine pieces, and cook until they are soft and lightly browned. This should take about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked aubergine, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Add in the egg and mix again to bind the mixture.
Step 4: Form the Meatballs
With your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. If the mixture is too wet, add extra breadcrumbs to reach the desired consistency.
Step 5: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the aubergine meatballs onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each one for even cooking. Spray them lightly with olive oil.
Step 6: Air Fry the Skewers
Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F). Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these aubergine meatball skewers hot with a side of marinara sauce or a fresh tzatziki dip for a refreshing twist. They pair wonderfully with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Conclusion
These aubergine meatball skewers offer a unique and delightful vegetarian option for your dinner table. Using an air fryer makes the process quick and mess-free, yielding a satisfying crunch with each bite. Whether you're a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based dishes into your diet, this recipe is sure to become a favourite.
Tips for Success
- To ensure even cooking, make sure each meatball is of equal size.
- If you don't have an air fryer, you can bake the skewers in an oven preheated to 200°C (400°F) for about 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Aubergines can be quite absorbent, so adjust the seasoning to taste and ensure they are well-flavoured.