Straight from the pantry
Eggplant Recipes
Eggplant turns soft and creamy when cooked. Here are cozy bakes, dips and skillet dishes to make with it.
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About Eggplant
Eggplant has a mild flavor and a meaty, silky texture once cooked. It soaks up sauces, spices and oil, so it works well in baked dishes, stews and dips. Roasting, frying and grilling are the most common ways to cook it.
Unlike zucchini, eggplant needs more cooking time to become tender. Unlike mushrooms, it drinks up oil, so a light hand helps. Pair it with tomatoes, garlic, cheese and herbs for classic, comforting meals.
Questions folks ask
Do I need to peel eggplant?
Not usually. The skin is tender once cooked. Peel it if the skin looks tough or you want a smoother texture.
Why does eggplant taste bitter?
Older or larger eggplants can be a bit bitter. Salting the slices and rinsing them can help.
How do I keep eggplant from getting oily?
Roast or bake it with a light brush of oil. You can also salt it first, which helps it absorb less.
Kitchen tips
- Slice and salt eggplant for 20 minutes, then pat dry to draw out moisture.
- Brush slices with oil instead of pouring it on to keep dishes lighter.
- Roast cut side down until soft and golden.
- Choose firm, shiny eggplant that feels heavy for its size.
- Cook until fully tender. Underdone eggplant can taste spongy.