This Is the Best Way to Freeze Eggplant
For the best results, you'll want to cook the eggplant before freezing.
Serves4
Prep10 minutes
Cook20 minutes
If your excitement for eggplant’s arrival at the farmers market got the best of you and you have more of these jewel-toned beauties than you can eat in a few days, it may be time to resort to meal prepping. You see, eggplant is at its best when eaten within a few days after bringing it home, otherwise you’re best bet is to learn how to freeze eggplant. The method takes just a couple steps, but it will help make the most out of your produce.
How to Freeze Eggplant
To get the best results, you’ll want to fire up the oven, grill, or stovetop before freezing eggplant. Because of its high water content, eggplant doesn’t freeze well raw. It benefits from being cooked (even just partially) first. There are two methods for preparing and freezing eggplant, and the right one for you depends on how you plan to use the eggplant later.
How to Freeze Eggplant Slices
- If you plan to use eggplant for sandwiches, Skillet Eggplant Parm, or a dish that uses flat pieces of eggplant, it’s best to freeze in slices.
- Cut the eggplant into approximately one-inch-thick slices, either lengthwise or crosswise, bake in the oven on a large baking sheet at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of the eggplant, just until tender.
- Once cool, place the slices between wax paper to prevent sticking, and store in freezer bags or containers (making sure to prevent freezer burn).
How to Freeze Eggplant Purée
- And when whole pieces aren’t necessary, like when you plan to use eggplant for dips, sauces, soups, stews, and spreads, cook it whole and freeze just the purée.
- Start by poking the eggplant with a fork, then roast in a 400°F oven for 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the eggplant, until it starts to collapse. Once cool, halve the eggplant, scoop out the flesh, and freeze in freezer bags or containers.
- No matter which method you use, when stored properly, it will last for up to one year in the freezer and is perfect for your eggplant recipes.
5 Recipes to Make with Frozen Eggplant
How to Freeze Eggplant Recipe
For the best results, you'll want to cook the eggplant before freezing.
Prep time 10 minutes
Cook time 20 minutes
Serves4
Nutritional Info
Ingredients
- 1
medium globe eggplant
Instructions
How to Freeze Eggplant Slices:
If you plan to use eggplant for a dish that uses flat pieces of eggplant, it's best to freeze in slices.
Cut the eggplant into approximately one-inch-thick slices, either lengthwise or crosswise, bake in the oven on a large baking sheet at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of the eggplant, just until tender.
Once the eggplant cools, place the slices between wax paper to prevent sticking, and store in freezer bags or containers.
How to Freeze Eggplant Purée:
Start by poking the whole eggplant with a fork, then roast in a 400°F oven for 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the eggplant, until it starts to collapse.
Once cool, halve the eggplant, scoop out the flesh, and freeze in freezer bags or containers.