Storing eggplant correctly can be the difference between a delicious meal and a disaster. Eggplants are sensitive to temperature and humidity, so it's important to store them properly to preserve their flavor and texture. So, here is my best advice on how to store eggplant so that it's fresh and ready for your meals.
Jump to:
Why You'll Love Eggplant
- Eggplant is a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be used in various dishes.
- It is relatively low in calories, rich in antioxidants, and contains fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Eggplants are also incredibly versatile when it comes to cooking – they can be roasted, grilled, mashed, pureed, or even made into a dip or spread.
How to Choose an Eggplant
Choosing the right eggplant at the store is essential for a delicious meal. When selecting an eggplant, look for one that is firm and glossy with smooth skin. It should be heavy for its size and free of bruises or blemishes.
Avoid any eggplants that are soft or have wrinkled skin, as these may indicate they are overripe. Additionally, check underneath the stem to make sure it is dry – if there is moisture present, this could signal rotting inside. Finally, smell your eggplant before buying it, if it has an unpleasant odor then you should choose another one instead!
How to Store
Storing eggplant correctly is essential to preserving its flavor and texture. Eggplants are sensitive to both temperature and humidity, so it's important to keep them properly in order for them to stay fresh longer. Here is some advice on how to store eggplant so that it's ready for your meals whenever you need it!
- Do not wash or cut eggplant until ready to use.
- Store eggplant in a paper bag on a cool dry place for a couple of days.
- For longer storage the best way to store eggplants is in the refrigerator.
- Store wrapped in a paper towel, to absorb moisture, in your crisper drawer.
- If the eggplant is too large, place it on the top shelf of your fridge away from any sources of heat. When storing uncut eggplants this way, they will typically stay fresh for about 5-7 days.
How to Store Cut Eggplant
- If you have cut eggplant that needs to be stored, the best way to do this is in an airtight container. Place the cut pieces of eggplant in a single layer and cover with plastic wrap or a lid. This will ensure that the eggplant does not dry out and that it stays fresh for longer.
- Additionally, make sure to store your cut eggplant in the refrigerator as soon as possible after cutting – any delay may cause it to go bad before you can use it. When stored properly, cut eggplants should stay fresh for up to two days.
- You may want to spray or squeeze some lemon juice over to prevent it from browning.
How to Freeze
- If you want to store eggplant for longer, consider freezing it. Start by peeling and cubing the eggplant, then blanch it in boiling water for two minutes. Allow it to cool before draining, patting it dry with paper towels, and placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Eggplant stored this way will stay fresh for up to four months!
- You can also air fry or roast eggplant slices then store cooked eggplant in your freezer.
- You may also want to grill your eggplant, scoop the flesh out, place in a freezer bag and freeze. Use this in making various eggplant dips, check out the recipes below.
How to Tell If Eggplant is Bad
It is important to know how to tell if eggplant has gone bad. If it looks wilted, wrinkled, or discolored, then it should be discarded immediately. Additionally, smell the eggplant before eating – if it has an unpleasant odor then you should not eat it. Finally, a sure sign that your eggplant has gone bad is if it has developed a slimy texture, which is the result of bacteria and mold growth.
Eggplant can be a delicious addition to your meals if stored properly. Keep these tips in mind for storing eggplant so that you can enjoy it at its best!
Eggplant Recipes
Eggplant is an underestimated vegetable. Check out these delicious eggplant recipes and fall in love with this amazing vegetable.
- This moussaka recipe is the ultimate comfort food for a cozy night in. Meaty, saucy with creamy and custardy bechamel layer. Nothing can beat that!
- Mutabal is a popular Middle Eastern eggplant dip with a creamy texture and smoky flavor. Usually served as an appetizer or mezze dish with warm pita bread and fresh vegetables.
- This is a delicious eggplant side dish in a vinegar garlic sauce.
- Savor the rich and cheesy goodness of a classic Italian dish while staying true to your keto lifestyle with this flavorful and guilt-free keto eggplant Parmesan recipe that will leave you craving for more.
- Baked eggplant slices are a healthy and flavorful alternative to fried eggplant. You can pretty much use any herbs, spices you like or simply use them in a keto eggplant Parmesan recipe.
Leave a Reply