Source: Qwartm, AdobeStockEggplant is not just a vegetable, but a whole world of flavors. Especially if you love rolls, stews, casseroles, and caviar. But did you know that eggplants can be frozen for winter? Yes, and there are different ways to do it, depending on what you plan to cook with them later. We're sharing only tried-and-true recipes and ideas!
1. Frozen Blanched Eggplants
Source: AdobeStockBefore freezing, vegetables must be heat-treated.
You will need: 500 g eggplants.
Preparation: Cut the eggplants into suitable pieces and, using a colander, immerse them in boiling water in batches for 2-3 minutes. Press the vegetables with a spoon to prevent them from floating. After that, let the prepared eggplants cool completely – you can put them in ice water for this.
Next, let them drain completely – naturally or under light pressure, then arrange the blanched eggplants in zip-lock bags or portioned containers and place them in the freezer.
2. Frozen Fried Eggplants
Source: AdobeStockCut them however you like – into circles, sticks, or thin slices for rolls.
You will need: 500 g eggplants, vegetable oil for frying.
Preparation: Slice the eggplants and place them in a preheated pan with oil. Fry them in a single layer in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, depending on the size of the pieces – the main thing is for them to turn evenly golden.
Don't forget to place the fried eggplants on paper towels to remove excess oil! After that, arrange them on a tray or board in a single layer and place them in the freezer. Once they are partially frozen, transfer them to zip-lock bags or portioned containers and return them to the freezer for storage.
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3. Frozen Baked Eggplants for Winter
Source: AdobeStockIf you don't have parchment paper, grease the baking sheet with vegetable oil – to prevent anything from sticking.
You will need: 500 g eggplants.
Preparation: Slice the eggplants and arrange them in a single layer on parchment paper. Bake them for about 30 minutes in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius, then remove, let them cool slightly, and pat dry with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture. Next, arrange the prepared eggplants on a board or tray, place them in the freezer for 1 hour, and then transfer them to zip-lock bags or containers for further storage.
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4. Frozen Whole Eggplants for Winter
Source: AdobeStockIn this recipe, we also recommend baking eggplants in the oven!
You will need: 5 eggplants.
Preparation: Using a fork or toothpick, make several holes in the eggplants, place them on parchment paper, and bake for 40-50 minutes in the oven at 190 degrees Celsius.
After that, make a shallow longitudinal cut on each eggplant, place them in a colander with the cut side down, press with a small weight, and let them cool completely in this position. Then place the eggplants in zip-lock bags or wrap them in cling film and store them in the freezer.
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5. Frozen Diced Eggplants
Source: AdobeStockSmall eggplant cubes don't necessarily need to be boiled or fried for a long time – you can simply pour boiling water over them.
You will need: 500 g eggplants.
Preparation: Peel and dice the eggplants, pour boiling water over them, place a small weight on top, and leave for 25-30 minutes. After that, rinse the eggplants with cold water, drain them in a colander, let them dry, and then arrange everything in airtight bags or containers. Place them in the freezer for storage.
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6. Frozen Eggplant Caviar for Winter
Source: AdobeStockA wonderful recipe while seasonal vegetables are still available!
You will need: 5 eggplants, 5-6 bell peppers.
Preparation: Place the eggplants and bell peppers on a baking sheet and bake them for 25-30 minutes in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius. Then let them cool, peel off the skin, and remove seeds from the peppers. Leave the vegetables under a press to drain excess juice, and only then finely chop them.
It's better not to use a meat grinder or blender, as it will turn into a complete "mash." You can additionally add salt, garlic, or herbs to taste. Arrange the resulting eggplant caviar in containers, ice cube trays, or portioned bags and place them in the freezer.