Eggplant Hash

Honestly, I’m always on the hunt for ways to make veggies taste indulgent, and this Eggplant Hash totally hits the spot. If you’re tired of the same old scramble for breakfast, this is the perfect low-carb side dish to switch things up without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s super cheesy, packed with zesty flavor from the fresh lime, and thanks to the air fryer, it comes together in just about 15 minutes. Trust me, even if you’re usually on the fence about eggplant, this quick and easy recipe might just change your mind!

Yields: 4 servings Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp (1 oz / 28 g) olive oil

• 2 medium eggplants (approx. 24 oz / 680 g), roughly cubed

• 8 oz (227 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded

• 3 spring onions (approx. 1.5 oz / 45 g), chopped

• 2 tbsp (1 oz / 30 ml) lime juice (from approx. 1 lime)

• 2 tbsp (1 oz / 28 g) butter, melted

• 4 large eggs (approx. 8 oz / 225 g), whisked

Instructions

1. Heat up a pan that fits the air fryer with the olive oil and melted butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped spring onions and the cubed eggplants, stir well, and cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
2. Add the whisked eggs and lime juice to the pan and stir well to combine everything evenly.
3. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Place the pan into the air fryer basket and cook at 380°F (193°C) for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from the fryer, divide between plates, and serve immediately as a side dish.

Nutrition

• Calories: 370 kcal

• Total Fat: 29 g

• Saturated Fat: 12 g

• Cholesterol: 215 mg

• Sodium: 450 mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 11 g

• Dietary Fiber: 4 g

• Sugars: 5 g

• Protein: 20 g

Pro Tips for the Perfect Eggplant Hash

• Size Matters: Make sure to dice your eggplant into uniform cubes, ideally about 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) in size. This ensures they cook through evenly and soften perfectly within the short cooking time without becoming mushy.

• Remove the Bitterness: If you have an extra 10 minutes, toss your eggplant cubes with a pinch of salt and let them sit in a colander before cooking. This draws out excess moisture and bitterness. Just give them a quick rinse and pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the pan.

• The Right Pan: Since this recipe transitions from the stovetop to the air fryer, a small cast-iron skillet is your best friend. It holds heat beautifully and is safe for both cooking methods. If you use a standard air fryer accessory pan, ensure it is stovetop safe; otherwise, sauté the veggies in a frying pan first and transfer them to the baking barrel for the final step.

• Shred Your Own Cheese: For the best “cheese pull,” avoid pre-shredded mozzarella. Packaged cheese contains anti-caking agents (like potato starch) that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating a fresh block of mozzarella will give you a much creamier texture.

• Watch the Eggs: Air fryers circulate hot air rapidly, which can cook eggs quickly. Check the hash at the 8-minute mark. If the eggs are set and the cheese is bubbly and golden, it’s ready to come out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to peel the eggplant before cooking? No, you do not need to peel the eggplant for this hash. The skin is rich in antioxidants like nasunin and adds a nice texture to the dish. However, if you find eggplant skin too tough or bitter, you can peel it partially in strips or remove it entirely before cubing.

Can I make this recipe in a regular oven? Yes, if you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake this in a standard oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Follow the instructions for sautéing the vegetables on the stove, add the egg mixture and cheese, and then bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and golden.

Is this Eggplant Hash keto-friendly? Absolutely. This recipe is naturally low-carb, high-fat, and gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for Keto and Paleo diets. Each serving contains approximately 11g of total carbs and 4g of fiber, resulting in a low net carb count.

What other cheeses can I use instead of mozzarella? While mozzarella gives a great melt and mild flavor, this hash works well with many other cheeses. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even crumbled feta or goat cheese are great options if you want a tangier flavor profile.

How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hash back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3 to 4 minutes. You can also microwave it, though the texture of the eggplant may become slightly softer.

I really hope this Eggplant Hash makes it into your regular breakfast rotation! It’s such a simple way to pack more nutrients into your morning without sacrificing flavor or that comforting, cheesy goodness we all love. Whether you’re sticking to a keto diet or just looking for something different to whip up in your air fryer, this dish delivers every time. Give it a try this week, and don’t forget to drop a comment below to let me know how it turned out—I’d love to hear what personal twists you added!