How To Grill Eggplants

Grilled eggplant is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in various recipes. If you're looking for a simple and flavorful way to prepare eggplant, grilling is the perfect method. Not only does grilling impart a smoky flavor to the eggplant, but it also gives the vegetable a tender texture that is simply irresistible. In this guide, I'll walk you through the steps to grill eggplants to perfection.

Choosing the Right Eggplants

Before you start grilling, it's important to select the right eggplants for the job. Look for eggplants that are firm, with smooth and shiny skin. Avoid eggplants that are wrinkled or have soft spots, as these may indicate that the vegetable is past its prime.

Preparing the Eggplants

Once you've selected your eggplants, it's time to prepare them for the grill. Start by washing the eggplants under running water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Next, trim off the stems and slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. If you prefer, you can also cut the eggplants into lengthwise slices or even wedges, depending on your grilling preferences.

Seasoning the Eggplants

Before grilling, it's a good idea to season the eggplants to enhance their flavor. You can keep it simple by brushing the eggplant slices with olive oil and sprinkling them with salt and pepper. For added flavor, you can also sprinkle the eggplants with a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs such as thyme or oregano. Allow the eggplants to sit for a few minutes to absorb the seasonings before placing them on the grill.

Preparing the Grill

While the eggplants are marinating, you can prepare the grill. If you're using a gas grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If you're using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to heat up until they are covered with a light layer of ash. Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent the eggplants from sticking.

Grilling the Eggplants

Now it's time to grill the eggplants. Place the seasoned eggplant slices directly on the grill grates, making sure to leave some space between each slice. Grill the eggplants for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have visible grill marks. Be careful not to overcook the eggplants, as they can become mushy if grilled for too long.

Serving the Grilled Eggplants

Once the eggplants are done grilling, remove them from the heat and transfer them to a serving platter. You can serve the grilled eggplants as a simple side dish, drizzled with a bit of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Alternatively, you can use the grilled eggplants in other recipes, such as eggplant parmesan, grilled vegetable sandwiches, or as a topping for salads and pizzas.

Conclusion

Grilling eggplants is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Whether you're serving them as a standalone dish or incorporating them into other recipes, grilled eggplants are sure to be a hit at your next meal. With just a few simple steps, you can elevate the flavor and texture of eggplants to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. So fire up the grill and give grilled eggplants a try – you won't be disappointed!