Eggplants can be stored in the refrigerator, but it can lead to browning and off-flavors
Store in a cool place outside the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Eggplant is ethylene sensitive, so it should not be stored with ethylene producing fruit such as apples, bananas, and peaches.
To freeze, slice into 1/4-1/3 in thick pieces and blanch for 4 minutes. Adding 1 cup of lemon juice to each gallon of blanching water can keep the eggplant from browning.
HGTV. 2018. Freezing Eggplant. https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/gardens/garden-to-table/freezing-eggplant. (accessed 16 June 2018).
Home Vegetable Gardening in Kentucky. ID-128. University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service
Markham, B.L. 2014. The MiniFarmingTM Bible: The Complete Guide to Self-Sufficiency on 1/4 Acre. SkyHorse Publishing. New York, New York.
Rombauer, I.S. M.R. Becker, and E. Becker. 2006. Joy of Cooking. Scribner. New York, New York. Pg 75.
Savethefood.com. 2018. I want to store vegetables. http://www.savethefood.com/food-storage/vegetables?gclid=EAIaIQobChMlIcD4wODV2wIV-C77ACh35tAAVEAAYAiAAEgLVnPD_BwE (accessed 15 June 2018)
Swiader, J.M. and G.W. Ware. 2002. Producing Vegetable Crops, 5th Ed. Interstate Publishers, Inc. Danville, Illinois.
With a knife pierce in several places each:
• 3 medium eggplants (about 4 pounds)
Preheat oven to 400circF. Place on baking sheet and roast until skins are dark mahogany in color and flesh feel soft, 45-60 min. OR roast the eggplants on a grill or open flame. Let stand until cool enough to handle. Split the eggplants. Scoop the flesh into a colander, and press to extract excess liquid. Transfer to a food processor and add:
2 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)
1 to 2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons salt
Pulse until smooth. Taste and adjust the lemon juice and salt. Transfer to a shallow serving bowl and garnish with:
Stir in 1/2 cup yogurt-optional
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
Pitted olives- optional
Serve with warm pita bread or pita chips.
Makes about 3 cups
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