preparing eggplant

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helenchild Decatur, GA Apr 14, 2016

Hi. I have also posted this in the recipe discussion.
I am wondering if anyone has suggestions about using weights to remove the excess moisture form eggplants. I remember my father (who was no kind of cook) doing this years ago but wonder if it was his own idea. I know salting helps remove moisture and improve the taste and am also wondering if I should use both salt and weights for even better results. Also for how long should you leave the eggplants under the wt. Thanks.

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drthor Irving, TX(Zone 8a) Apr 15, 2016

Yes you are correct.
Even without weights the eggplants will release the extra water if you sprinkle some salt on each slice.
It will take 20-30 minutes.
Some Asian varieties of eggplant don't need this kind of treatment.

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helenchild Decatur, GA Apr 15, 2016

drthor,
Great picture!!
I used salt and wts and got some moisture out but not too much. I think because the eggplants were small and probably young. (from Costco)
Someone else told me the treatments aren't that necessary for improved flavor (reduced bitterness) unless you're dealing with older less fresh eggplants.
Helen

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jmc1987 Cascade, VA(Zone 7a) Apr 16, 2016

good stuff to know as i have both "black beauty", and "casper" eggplants on the garden plans this year

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drthor Irving, TX(Zone 8a) Apr 18, 2016

Quote from jmc1987 :
good stuff to know as i have both "black beauty", and "casper" eggplants on the garden plans this year


Casper is a fantastic eggplant. It doesn't keep as well in the fridge as the purple ones, in fact their skin will turn brown quickly.
Just harvest them and eat in 2 days max. It is a really sweet tasty eggplant.



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jmc1987 Cascade, VA(Zone 7a) Apr 18, 2016

what kind of recipes would you suggest for casper?

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beebonnet Coos Bay, OR(Zone 9a) Apr 18, 2016

I will be sure to look for Casper in our farmer's market this summer. Sounds so good. Thanks for the post.

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drthor Irving, TX(Zone 8a) Apr 19, 2016

Quote from jmc1987 :
what kind of recipes would you suggest for casper?

I absolutely love grilled eggplants.
Use a mandolin to slice the eggplants very thin.
Grill until you see grilling marks.
Dress with Olive oil , S+P and shredded mint !

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helenchild Decatur, GA Apr 19, 2016

It may seem strange but I put eggplant in the slow cooker with other veggies like tomatoes, peppers, okra, green beans - any compilation... salt pepper, turmeric or other flavorings you like. Splash it with some olive oil. Serve over rice - optional
I like simple fare.

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