If you are looking for the best way to cook eggplant, I think that you are in the right place. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook eggplant perfectly in 4 different ways.
1. How To Cook Eggplant on Stove
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large eggplant, or 2-3 small
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, divided
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Wash the eggplant, pat it dry, then cut it into 1/2-inch to 1-inch chunks.
Heat oil in a large skillet set over medium heat. Add the eggplant, sprinkle on the seasonings and saute for 5 minutes, stirring often, until the flesh begins to turn golden.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover and continue to saute for 3 to 5 minutes, until browned and tender.
Taste and season as desired, then squeeze half a lemon over the eggplant. Stir and transfer to a serving dish. Serve with lemon wedges, garnished with red pepper and fresh parsley.
2. How To Cook Eggplant in Oven
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds eggplant
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- salt to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1-inch-thick slices.
Next, arrange the slices on a lightly greased baking sheet. Then brush with olive oil and soy sauce. Sprinkle with mince garlic and smoked paprika. Season with salt to taste.
Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes or until tender.
3. How To Cook Eggplant in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant about 1 pound
- 2 to 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning optional
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Parmesan optional for serving
- Finely chopped parsley or basil optional for serving
Instructions
Cut the eggplant into 1/4-inch rounds (no need to peel it). Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet or similar work surface. Brush the first side lightly with oil, then flip, brush the other side, and sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the top.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer*— you will very likely need to cook it in batches. Air fry until the eggplant is crisp, about 12 to 15 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Repeat with the remaining slices. Sprinkle immediately with parmesan and parsley (if using).
4. How To Cook Eggplant on Grill
Ingredients
- 2 medium Eggplant (~1 lb each)
- 6 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preheat the grill or a cast iron grill pan to medium high heat.
Slice the eggplant crosswise to make circles, about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thick. Cut off the leafy end only after you are done slicing, so that you’ll have more to grab onto as you slice.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Brush about half of the mixture over the eggplant slices. Season with half of the sea salt and black pepper.
Flip the eggplant slices and repeat with the remaining oil mixture, salt, and pepper on the other side.
Place the eggplant slices on the grill or grill pan in a single layer. If using a grill pan, spray with cooking spray first and cook uncovered. If using a grill, close the lid. Grill eggplant for 3-5 minutes per side, until charred, tender, and no longer white.
Now, you knew how to cook perfect eggplant for beginners. I hope after reading this article you can successfully apply what I have shared above. Good luck and have a delicious meal.
