Do you love eggplant, but don’t know how to cut it? Check out this blog post for a step-by-step guide on how to cut eggplant like a pro!
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Eggplant Basics
Eggplant, or aubergine, is a member of the nightshade family that also includes tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers. It’s a versatile vegetable that can be used in many different dishes, from appetizers to main course meals. Eggplant is a low-calorie food that is also a good source of fiber and vitamins. When selecting an eggplant, look for one that is firm and shiny with no bruises. Eggplant can be cut in a variety of ways, depending on how you want to use it in a recipe. Let’s go over some of the most common methods.
What is an eggplant?
Eggplant is a species of nightshade typically eaten as a vegetable. It’s common in cuisines all over the world and prized for its BURGundy color, creamy texture, and earthy flavor.
Eggplant is part of the Solanaceae family, which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and tomatillos. The Solanaceae family is native to the Americas, but today eggplant is cultivated everywhere from Africa to Asia.
The two most common types of eggplant are the glossy purple globe eggplant and the long, slender Asian eggplant. There are many other varieties as well, including white eggplant, green eggplant, and Thai eggplant.
Eggplant is a delicate vegetable that should be treated with care. When cutting eggplant, it’s important to use a sharp knife to avoid bruising the flesh. Eggplant should be cut into uniform pieces so that it cooks evenly.
How to select an eggplant
When deciding how to cut eggplant, first select a firm fruit that is heavy for its size with smooth, glossy skin. There should be no bruises or blemishes on the surface. The stem should be fresh and green, not dried out or brown. If the fruit is too soft, it will be mushy when cooked.
To use eggplant in recipes that call for peeled and diced eggplant, first cut off the stem. Cut the fruit in half lengthwise and then crosswise into thick slices. To make thin slices or “planets”, lengthwise cuts are made parallel to the cutting board instead of across the center of the fruit.
Now that you know how to select and cut eggplant, you’re ready to try some delicious recipes!
How to store an eggplant
Eggplants are a bit finicky when it comes to storage. They are best kept at cool room temperature, out of direct sunlight, and in a humid environment. If you need to store them for more than a day or two, the fridge is your best bet.
To store an eggplant, first cut off the stem. This will help prevent the eggplant from rotting. Cut the eggplant into manageable pieces, if necessary. Place the eggplant in a plastic bag or container with holes in it to allow for air circulation. Store the eggplant in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Use within two days for best results.
Cutting an Eggplant
Eggplant is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s important to know how to properly cut an eggplant so that you can get the most out of it. There are a few different ways that you can cut an eggplant, and the method you use will depend on the dish you’re making. Let’s take a look at a few different ways to cut an eggplant.
Cutting an eggplant for stir fry
When cutting an eggplant for stir fry, you’ll want to first cut off the ends of the eggplant. Cut the eggplant in half lengthwise, then slice it into 1/2-inch thick half-moons. You can then cut the half-moons into smaller pieces if desired.
Cutting an eggplant for roasting
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be roasted, grilled, or used in a variety of cooked dishes. It can be tricky to cut, however, because of its tough skin and spongy flesh. With a sharp knife and a little bit of practice, you can learn to cut eggplant like a pro.
To cut an eggplant for roasting:
1. Start by cutting off the top of the eggplant, just below the stem.
2. Slice the eggplant in half lengthwise.
3. Cut each half of the eggplant into thin slices, about 1/4-inch thick.
4. To roast the eggplant, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
Cutting an eggplant for grilling
Grilling eggplant is a great way to enjoy its creamy texture and rich flavor. To prepare eggplant for grilling, start by cutting it into thick slices or long strips. If you’re using a round eggplant, cut it into rounds that are about 1-inch thick. If you’re using a long, slender eggplant, cut it into strips that are about 1-inch wide and 3-inches long.
Once your eggplant is cut, brush it lightly with olive oil and season it with salt and pepper. Then, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the eggplant slices or strips on the grill grates. Grill the eggplant for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it is tender and cooked through. Serve grilled eggplant warm, topped with your favorite sauce or condiment.
