Eggplant
Also called aubergine
Eggplant takes up flavors and maintains firm texture if cooked right.
Flavor profile
Aroma: earthy, mellow
Good to know
Origin: India
Forms: fresh, grilled, roasted
Storage: Store at room temperature for a few days, or refrigerate if longer storage is needed.
How to use eggplant
Bitterness Be Gone
Salting reduces bitterness and excess moisture.
Smoky Goodness
Charring causes pyrolysis, adding smoky flavors.
What goes with eggplant
- Garlic. Garlic's intense aroma seeps into eggplant's porous flesh.
- Tahini. Nutty tahini enriches smoky charred eggplant, the base of baba ganoush.
- Bell Pepper. Sweet roasted pepper balances eggplant's mild bitterness, as in ratatouille and caponata.
- Mozzarella. Melting mozzarella adds creamy richness to eggplant's soft, bland flesh, as in parmigiana.
- Parmesan. Parmesan's salty umami seasons eggplant's neutral flesh and browns into a savory crust.
- Olive oil. Eggplant soaks up olive oil, transforming it into creamy richness.
- Tomato Paste. Tomato paste intensifies eggplant’s umami and sweetness.
- Basil. Basil's aroma lightens eggplant's deeper taste.
- Miso. Miso's umami amplifies eggplant’s savory side.
- Lamb Shoulder. Eggplant's spongy flesh soaks up rendered lamb fat, the idea behind moussaka.
Mistakes to avoid
- Skipping the salt step leaves eggplant bitter.
- Spongy texture takes up too much oil, making dishes greasy.
Ideas for tonight
- Grill for a smoky taste.
- Cube and add to hearty stews.
- Roast and mash for a creamy dip.
Eggplant: questions
What does eggplant taste like?
Eggplant takes up flavors and maintains firm texture if cooked right., with an aroma that is earthy, mellow.
What goes well with eggplant?
Eggplant pairs best with garlic, tahini, bell pepper, mozzarella, parmesan. Garlic's intense aroma seeps into eggplant's porous flesh.
How do you use eggplant in cooking?
Bitterness Be Gone: salting reduces bitterness and excess moisture.
How should you store eggplant?
Store at room temperature for a few days, or refrigerate if longer storage is needed.
What is the most common mistake with eggplant?
Skipping the salt step leaves eggplant bitter.
