Short Answer:

Yes, you can use many vegetables besides peppers for stuffing in an air fryer. Vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, mushrooms, eggplant, and squash work well because they have cavities or can be hollowed to hold fillings.

The process is similar: hollow the vegetable, prepare a flavorful filling with grains, proteins, or other vegetables, and cook in the air fryer at 180–200°C. This creates tender, flavorful stuffed vegetables with a slightly roasted exterior and a well-cooked filling.

Detailed Explanation:

Using Other Vegetables for Stuffing

While bell peppers are the most common choice for stuffed vegetables, many other vegetables can be used effectively in an air fryer. Zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, mushrooms, and squash are excellent options because they have soft, hollow centers or can be scooped out to create space for fillings. These vegetables absorb flavors from the stuffing while remaining tender after air frying.

Preparation of Vegetables

Select firm, fresh vegetables for stuffing. Cut the tops off zucchini or eggplant, scoop out the seeds or flesh as needed, and lightly season or brush with oil to enhance flavor and browning. Mushrooms can be used whole by removing the stems and filling the caps with the prepared mixture. Tomatoes and squash can be hollowed carefully to avoid breaking the outer shell.

Choosing the Filling

The filling can include cooked grains, legumes, vegetables, paneer, or tofu, combined with herbs and spices. Make sure the filling is not too watery, as this can make the vegetables soggy. Binding agents like breadcrumbs or cornflour can help the filling hold its shape during cooking. This allows the exterior to crisp slightly while keeping the interior moist and flavorful.

Cooking in the Air Fryer

Arrange stuffed vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly brush with oil for browning, and cook at 180–200°C for 12–15 minutes, flipping or rotating halfway through for even cooking. Cooking times may vary depending on the type and size of the vegetable. Dense vegetables like eggplant may require slightly longer cooking than mushrooms or tomatoes.

Benefits of Using Various Vegetables

Using different vegetables increases variety, color, and nutrition. Each vegetable brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish. Zucchini and squash remain tender with a mild taste, mushrooms add an earthy flavor, and tomatoes provide juiciness and natural acidity. Using a range of vegetables also allows for creative, visually appealing presentations.

Tips for Best Results

1. Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
2. Avoid overfilling vegetables to prevent spilling or uneven cooking.
3. Uniform sizes and thickness help the vegetables cook evenly.
4. Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

Conclusion:

You can use many vegetables besides peppers for stuffing in an air fryer, including zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, tomatoes, and squash. Hollow the vegetables, prepare a balanced filling, and air fry at 180–200°C for 12–15 minutes. This method produces tender, flavorful, and visually appealing stuffed vegetables while preserving nutrients and reducing the need for oil.