The right storage technique could buy you a week before your eggplant goes bad.
Its declined in popularity in recent years because it can be temperamental.
It goes bad easily, can have a bitter taste, and gets soggy if you skipthe prep work.
Photo:MARINA BOGACHYOVA/Getty Images
But dont give up on eggplant just yet.There are quite a few ways to make eggplant more enjoyable.
Choosing a ripe eggplant and storing it properly can make all the difference.
Theres a reason why some countries eat tons of eggplant each year.
When stored and prepared properly, its tender, flavorful, and delicious.
Here, we identify how to store eggplant, and the best ways to keep it tasty and fresh.
How to Buy Eggplant
According to theUSDA, eggplant is asummer vegetable.
(Well,technically its a fruitsince it has seeds, but its pretty much an honorary veggie.)
When you get your hands on a heavy, firm eggplant, you know youve got a good one.
A ripe eggplant will feel heavy and have a solid texture with no punctures.
Some say you canripeneggplant at home, but the results are mixed.
For the best taste and texture, a ripe eggplant is the safest choice.
Once harvested, eggplant lasts longest when stored between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Coincidentally, this is about the same temperature as a wine cooler or cellar.
In fact, some people say that a room temperature setting is the best place to store eggplant.
However, your time is limited.
But, sometimes refrigeration is your only option, so we make do with what weve got.
If you dont plan on using your eggplant within a couple days, refrigeration is your best bet.
At colder temperatures, the quality of your eggplant could decline.
For the best results, make a run at store it away from other produce.
If possible, make a run at avoid cutting your eggplant before its time to use it.
Aim to use it up within three or four days.
During this time, you might notice some browning.
Squeezing some lemon juice on top of the eggplant could help prevent the browning, if that bothers you.
Can You Freeze Eggplant?
Freezing eggplant is a great way to preserve it for longer periods of time.
Bothraw and cooked eggplant can be frozenfor later use, and will stay fresh for several months.
To freeze raw eggplant, youll need to get comfortable with blanching.
Its easier than youd think.
When its time, you might use frozen eggplant in dips, salads,stir-frys, and everyones favoriteratatouille.
Frequently Asked Questions
If stored on the counter, eggplant should last there for 1-2 days.
Freezing eggplant buys you the most timethis method preserves the nightshade for up to a year.
A soft texture is a dead giveaway that eggplant has gone bad.
A ripe eggplant should be firm to the touch.
It may have a slight give when pressed, but it should bounce back.
When you cut into an eggplant, the flesh should be mostly white.
