If you’re looking for a healthy and easy-to-prepare meal option, look no further than eggplant dishes! Eggplants are incredibly versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways, from grilling to roasting to sautéing. Not to mention, eggplants are rich in nutrients like fiber, potassium, and vitamins B6 and C, making them a great addition to any diet. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to cook delicious eggplant dishes, so you can add more vegetarian options to your meal planning.
What are the Different Types of Eggplant?
Eggplants are a versatile vegetable, but did you know that there are more than seven different types of eggplants? Each has its unique shape, texture, and flavor that can add a different twist to your recipes. Here are some of the most common types:
Italian Eggplant
Also known as the traditional eggplant, Italian eggplants are large and have a glossy, deep purple skin. They have fewer seeds and a less bitter taste, making them perfect for salads, grilling, and roasting.
Japanese Eggplant
Japanese eggplants are long, narrow, and slender with a thin skin that is tender enough to eat. They have a sweeter taste than the Italian eggplant and are perfect for stir-fries, curries, and tempura dishes.
Indian Eggplant
Indian eggplants or brinjals are small and round with a green and white striped skin. They have a slightly bitter taste and are perfect for dishes such as bhartha, a roasted eggplant mash mixed with spices and herbs.
Chinese Eggplant
Chinese eggplants are long and thin with a darker shade of purple than the Italian eggplant. They have a delicate flavor and are great for dishes such as stir-fries, dumplings, and stews.
White Eggplant
White eggplants are small and round with a white or cream-colored skin. They have a mild taste and are less bitter than the Italian eggplant. They’re ideal for roasting, grilling, and stuffing.
Striped Eggplant
Also referred to as the zebra eggplant, striped eggplants are small and round with white stripes on their deep purple skin. They have a meaty texture and are perfect for grilling, roasting, and sautéing.
Which Eggplant Should I Use for Different Dishes?
Eggplants can be used in various dishes, but not all of them are made the same. Depending on the recipe, it is ideal to know which eggplant works best. Here are a few examples:
Italian Eggplants
Italian eggplants have a wider and plumper shape than other varieties, and often have a darker shade of purple. They are perfect for roasting or grilling due to their meatiness and lower water content. Additionally, they have a tender texture that is perfect for dishes like:
- Eggplant lasagna
- Baba ganoush
- Ratatouille
Japanese Eggplants
Japanese eggplants are long and slender with a light purple shade, and have a delicate flavor. They are ideal for stir-frying or deep-frying, and their thin skin makes them perfect for Tempura. They can also be used in popular dishes like:
- Miso soup
- Stir-fried eggplant with chicken or beef
- Eggplant miso dengaku
Chinese Eggplants
Chinese eggplants are similar in length and color to Japanese eggplants but are wider with a slightly different shape. They are soft in texture and have a slightly sweet taste. These eggplants are recommended for dishes like:
- Zhong shan eggplant
- Chinese eggplant salad
- Garlic roasted eggplant
How Can I Prep and Cook Eggplants Without Making Them Soggy?
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in various ways. On the downside, it has a reputation for turning soggy when cooked. Follow these tips to make sure your eggplant dishes are deliciously crispy:
1. Choose the Right Eggplant
Start with the right eggplant. Not all are created equal, and some are less likely to turn soggy than others. Smaller eggplants or Asian varieties tend to have fewer seeds and firmer flesh. Choose eggplants that are heavy for their size, shiny, and free of bruises or blemishes. A good eggplant should feel firm to the touch.
2. Salt and Drain the Eggplant
One of the most effective ways to prevent a soggy eggplant is to salt and drain it. This method works by drawing out the excess moisture from the vegetable. Begin by slicing or cubing the eggplant, then sprinkle salt generously on both sides. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. You’ll notice that the salt will draw out a lot of liquid from the eggplant. Rinse the eggplant with water and squeeze out the excess moisture using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Your eggplant is now ready to be cooked.
3. Cook at High Heat
Another way to prevent a soggy eggplant is to cook it at high heat. High heat helps to crisp up the eggplant and prevent it from becoming mushy. Here are some cooking techniques to try:
- Grilling: Brush eggplant slices with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill on a hot grill pan or outdoor grill for 4-5 minutes per side, until charred and tender.
- Roasting: Toss eggplant with oil, salt, and pepper, and spread out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through the cooking time.
- Broiling: Place eggplant slices on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes per side, until charred and tender.
Experiment with different cooking methods to find your favorite way to prepare eggplant. Remember to keep the heat high, and don’t overcrowd the pan or baking sheet. This will ensure that the eggplant cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
What are Some Classic Eggplant Dishes from Around the World?
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that is featured in many different cuisines across the globe. Here are four classic eggplant dishes from around the world:
Baba Ganoush from the Middle East
Baba ganoush is a classic Middle Eastern dish that is made with eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. The eggplant is typically roasted until it is soft, then mixed with the other ingredients to create a creamy dip that is perfect for serving with pita bread or vegetables. Baba ganoush is great as an appetizer or as a side dish.
Caponata from Italy
Caponata is a Sicilian dish that features eggplant, tomatoes, onions, celery, capers, olives, and vinegar. The vegetables are all cooked together until they are soft and flavorful, then served as a side dish or a topping for crostini. Caponata is a great way to use up any extra vegetables that you have on hand, and it makes a great vegetarian dish.
Moussaka from Greece
Moussaka is a Greek dish that is made with layers of eggplant, ground lamb or beef, tomatoes, onions, and spices. The dish is topped with a creamy bechamel sauce and baked until it is golden and bubbly. Moussaka is a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for a winter comfort food.
Baingan Bharta from India
Baingan bharta is an Indian dish that is made with roasted eggplant, onions, tomatoes, and spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The eggplant is roasted until it is soft and smoky, then mixed with the other ingredients to create a flavorful and aromatic dish. Baingan bharta is usually served with flatbread like naan or roti.
How Can I Use Eggplants in Vegan and Vegetarian Recipes?
Eggplants are a versatile ingredient for vegetarian and vegan meals. Here are five delicious ways to incorporate them into your cooking:
1. Eggplant Parmesan
Instead of using meat, try making a vegan version of this classic Italian dish using eggplants. Bread and fry the eggplant slices, then layer them with tomato sauce and vegan cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Eggplant Curry
Add chopped eggplant to your favorite curry recipe for a boost of flavor and texture. Eggplant acts like a sponge, soaking up all of the delicious spices and seasonings in your dish.
3. Eggplant Lasagna
Replace the lasagna noodles with thinly sliced eggplant for a low-carb and gluten-free alternative. Layer the eggplant with tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and your favorite veggies, then bake until bubbly and golden.
4. Eggplant Stir Fry
Cut the eggplant into bite-sized pieces and add to a stir fry with other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. Toss with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
5. Eggplant Caponata
This traditional Sicilian dish is a sweet and savory relish made with eggplant, tomatoes, olives, and capers. Serve it on crostini as an appetizer or as a topping for grilled meats or fish.
What are Some Tips for Storing and Freezing Eggplant?
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in many different ways, making it a popular ingredient in many dishes. But whether you just bought some fresh eggplant from your local market or you have some leftover from last night’s dinner, you want to make sure your eggplant stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Here are some tips for storing and freezing eggplant.
Storing Eggplant
When it comes to storing eggplant, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, you want to keep your eggplant in a cool, ventilated area. This will help prevent moisture buildup, which can cause your eggplant to spoil more quickly. If you have a pantry or shelf that is away from direct sunlight, that would be an ideal spot to store your eggplant.
Another option is to store your eggplant in the fridge. This can help extend its shelf life by up to a week. However, you need to be careful not to store your eggplant in a plastic bag, as this can cause it to sweat and rot. Instead, wrap your eggplant in a paper towel or cloth and store it in an open container in your fridge.
One thing you should avoid doing is washing your eggplant before storing it. Eggplant is like a sponge, and it can absorb a lot of moisture, which can lead to spoilage. Instead, wait to wash your eggplant until you’re ready to use it.
Freezing Eggplant
If you have more eggplant than you can use within a few days, or if you want to preserve it for future use, freezing is a great option. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice or cube your eggplant into the desired size. This will make it easier to use when you’re ready to cook.
- Blanch the eggplant by boiling it for 4-5 minutes, or roasting it in the oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes. This will help preserve the texture and color of the eggplant.
- Shock the eggplant by placing it into a bowl of ice water for a few minutes. This will help stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Drain the eggplant and pat it dry with a paper towel. This will remove any excess moisture.
- Store the eggplant in airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to label them with the date so you know when they were frozen.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer and store for up to 6 months.
By following these tips for storing and freezing eggplant, you can make sure your eggplant stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Whether you’re making eggplant parmesan or throwing it into your favorite stir-fry, you’ll appreciate having it on hand whenever you need it.
Enjoy the Delicious Eggplant Dishes
Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best ways to cook delicious eggplant dishes. We hope that you have found some helpful tips and recipes to try in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to come back for more great cooking advice and recipes, and feel free to share this article with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
The Best Ways to Cook Delicious Eggplant Dishes
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp. dried oregano
- ¼ tsp. salt
- ¼ tsp. black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Slice your eggplant into 1/2-inch rounds.
- Let the eggplant sit for 30 minutes to remove any bitter juices.
- Pat dry with paper towels.
- Brush both sides of the eggplant rounds with the olive oil mixture.
- Sprinkle each round with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Or until the eggplant is tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
