How To Cut An Eggplant

Learning how to cut an eggplant is an essential skill for anyone who loves Mediterranean cuisine or wants to incorporate more vegetables into their diet. Eggplants are not only versatile but also packed with nutrients, making them a great addition to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re preparing a classic Eggplant Parmesan, a hearty Eggplant Stew, or a simple Grilled Eggplant, knowing how to cut an eggplant properly is the first step to creating delicious meals.

Slice Lengthwise

If your recipe calls for lengthwise slices of eggplant, start by standing the eggplant up vertically. Then, make 1/2″ vertical slices from top to bottom. This method is perfect for dishes like Eggplant Parmesan or Grilled Eggplant, where longer slices are preferred.

Slice Into Rounds

For recipes that require round slices of eggplant, lay the eggplant on its side and make 1/2″ slices across the eggplant. Round slices are ideal for roasting, grilling, or layering in dishes like Eggplant Parmesan.

Cut Into Cubes

If you need diced eggplant for stir-fries, curries, or pasta dishes, start by standing the eggplant up vertically and making 1/2″ vertical slices. Then, lay the eggplant down on its side and slice each of these vertical slices into sticks. Finally, cut the sticks into the desired cube size. Keep in mind that eggplant tends to shrink during cooking, so cutting slightly larger cubes is recommended.

Tips for Cutting Eggplant

When it comes to cutting eggplant, a few tips can make the process easier and more efficient:

Start with the freshest eggplant you can find, looking for bright, shiny purple skins and firm texture.
Use a sharp, large knife to ensure precise cuts and make the process easier.
To preserve eggplant slices longer, brush them with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Recipes with Eggplant

Once you’ve mastered the art of cutting eggplant, you can explore a wide range of recipes that feature this versatile vegetable. From Middle Eastern Eggplant Stew to Grilled Eggplant and Eggplant Curry, there are countless ways to incorporate eggplant into your cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some recipes call for salting the eggplant?

Salting preps the eggplant for cooking so that it absorbs less fat and grease, resulting in a better texture and flavor in the final dish.

Are the different kinds of eggplants interchangeable in recipes?

Yes, for the most part. While the large meaty purple globe variety is the most common in the US, smaller, thinner-skinned Asian varieties can also be used interchangeably in many recipes.

How do I prevent my eggplant from being bitter?

It’s best not to let the eggplant sit in the fridge for too long, as older eggplants tend to be more bitter. Additionally, avoid using very large eggplants, as they tend to be more bitter in flavor.

How do you store sliced/cut eggplant?

Store the eggplant in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. To prevent browning, brush the slices with lemon juice before storing them.

Can I freeze cut eggplant?

Raw cut eggplant needs to be blanched before freezing it. It will keep well for up to 6 months and should be fully thawed before cooking it.

Now that you’ve learned how to cut an eggplant and discovered the many ways to use it in your cooking, you can confidently incorporate this nutritious and versatile vegetable into your favorite recipes.