5 Easy Ways to Cook Eggplant

Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that is not only delicious but also packed with fiber and cancer-fighting antioxidants. With its sturdy texture and mild flavor, eggplant can be cooked in various ways, making it a favorite ingredient in many dishes. Whether you prefer breading, baking, roasting, grilling, or sautéing, eggplant can adapt to different cooking methods, allowing you to explore a wide range of culinary possibilities.

Peak season for eggplant is from July through October, so late summer is the perfect time to experiment with this nutritious vegetable. To ensure you choose the best eggplant, look for firm, glossy-skinned ones that are heavy for their size and have a bright, mold-free top. Younger and smaller eggplants tend to be less bitter than larger or older ones, so opt for those if possible. Remember that eggplants are perishable, so store them whole in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 days to maintain their freshness.

Before cooking eggplant, it’s essential to peel and prep it properly. While the skin of small, young eggplants is edible, larger or older eggplants have bitter skin that should be removed. Use a vegetable peeler or paring knife to peel the eggplant, and only do so right before using to prevent discoloration. If you prefer, you can also salt the eggplant slices or cubes before cooking to reduce bitterness. Simply lay them on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, let them sit for 20 minutes, then rinse and pat dry before using.

Roasting eggplant is a popular cooking method that results in a deliciously tender and flavorful dish. To roast eggplant, preheat the oven, peel the eggplant if desired, cut it into cubes, and toss it in a mixture of garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast the eggplant in the oven for about 20 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

Stuffed eggplant is another fantastic way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. To stuff an eggplant, halve it lengthwise, scoop out the flesh, and add your desired filling. You can bake or grill stuffed eggplant for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Grilling eggplant is a quick and easy way to enjoy its smoky flavor and dense texture. Simply brush the eggplant slices with oil, season as desired, and grill them over medium heat until crisp-tender, turning occasionally for even cooking.

Sautéing eggplant is a fast and flavorful way to cook this vegetable. Coat the slices with olive oil, bread crumbs, and cheese, then sauté them in a skillet until golden brown on both sides.

If you’re looking for a hands-off cooking method, you can also cook eggplant in the microwave. Simply peel and cube the eggplant, place it in a microwave-safe dish with water, and microwave until tender, stirring occasionally.

In conclusion, eggplant is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer roasting, grilling, sautéing, stuffing, or microwaving, there are endless possibilities for incorporating eggplant into your meals. Experiment with different cooking methods to discover your favorite way to enjoy this delicious and healthy vegetable.