Freezing eggplants is one of the easiest and most gentle ways to preserve the vitamins and valuable substances of this vegetable. When frozen, eggplants will not spoil, retain their taste and do not require much effort when using them in cooking.
It is necessary
- - eggplant;
- - salt;
- - frying pan;
- - colander;
- - container;
- - cellophane food wrap;
- - refrigerator.
Instructions
Step 1
There are two ways to freeze eggplants: raw and boiled. Please note that when freezing raw eggplants, they can only be stored at temperatures between -12 ° C and no more than 5 months. In addition, raw eggplant can absorb odors and change the taste. Never freeze eggplants with other vegetables.
Step 2
Wash and remove the dirt from the eggplants, then place them directly in the skins in a skillet and fry over low heat until soft, turning from time to time. You do not need to use oil when frying eggplants. Thus, the eggplants will be baked in their own skin, which will relieve them of water and bitterness.
Step 3
After frying, leave the eggplants until they have cooled completely. Peel them off. If you have fried eggplants to the desired state and degree of softness, then the previously strong and strong peel of this vegetable will come off with ease.
Step 4
After that, wrap each eggplant with a special cellophane cling film used for storing vegetables and fruits. Place the eggplants in a special container and refrigerate. In the future, you can take the eggplant one at a time as needed and use it in cooking.
Step 5
There is another way to freeze eggplants using the blanching method. Wash the vegetables, remove the legs, and cut into pieces that are convenient for you, such as cubes or slices. To remove the bitter taste of eggplant, sprinkle with salt and let sit for 30 minutes. During this time, juice should stand out, which must be washed off with water.
Step 6
Dip the eggplants in a colander in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, and then in cold water. Then spread the eggplants in one layer on a towel to dry completely. Cover the top with a bag. After 3-4 hours, place the eggplants in special containers, which must ensure tightness. Eggplants prepared in this way can be stored for six months at a temperature of -14 ° C.
Step 7
You can defrost eggplants naturally at room temperature, as well as using the microwave. Never defrost it in water, as a capricious vegetable like eggplant will lose its nutrients. Frozen eggplants can be used to make a salad, casserole, add to vegetable stews, or serve as a side dish with meat.
