1. Choose the right eggplants: When grilling eggplants, it is important to select the right variety. The best eggplants for grilling are firm, with shiny and smooth skin. Small to medium-sized eggplants are ideal because they cook evenly and quickly.
2. Prepare the eggplants: The key to perfectly eggplants is to slice them evenly. Cut the eggplants into round slices, approximately ¼ inch thick. You can also cut them lengthwise, depending on your preference. Sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices and let them rest for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess water and bitterness from the eggplants.
3. Brush with olive oil: Brushing the eggplant slices with olive oil before grilling ensures that they cook evenly and don’t stick to the grill. It also adds a delicious flavor to the eggplants. You can use a silicone brush or a paper towel to apply the olive oil.
4. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to high heat. The grill should be hot enough to create grill marks on the eggplant slices. If the grill is not hot enough, the eggplants will become soggy and won’t cook evenly.
5. Grill the eggplants: Once the grill is hot, place the eggplant slices on the grates. Grill them for 3-5 minutes on each side. Turn the slices over once grill marks have formed. Grilled eggplants should be soft and tender, with a slightly crispy exterior.
6. Flavoring the eggplants: To add some extra flavor to your grilled eggplants, you can sprinkle them with some chopped garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also drizzle them with balsamic glaze or a tangy vinaigrette.
7. Serve and enjoy: Once the eggplants are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them as a side dish or as a main course. Grilled eggplants go well with a variety of dishes, such as pasta, salads, sandwiches, and dips.
In conclusion, grilling eggplants is a great way to prepare this versatile vegetable. With the right technique and seasoning, grilled eggplants can be a delicious addition to any meal. Follow these simple tips to make perfectly grilled eggplants that are sure to impress your guests.