In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about freezing eggplant slices. You’ll find step by step directions on how to freeze eggplant and some tips to make the freezing process easier.
Let’s begin…
Can You Freeze eggplant?
Quick Answer: Yes, eggplant can be frozen.
Although properly stored, cooked eggplant will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator, however, if you wish to have it for a longer time, freeze it in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Directions for Freezing eggplant
Eggplant will become softer after being frozen, but this is not an issue if you plan on cooking right after thawing.
Here’s how you should do it…
Step 1. Choose fresh eggplant.
Do not use eggplant that has soft spots or colored patches. If you won’t be freezing it right away, store it in the refrigerator until you’re about to cook and freeze them. Wash the eggplant and drain thoroughly before starting your prep.
Step 2. Prepare the eggplant
Peel the eggplant from to bottom. Cut the eggplant into thick skinless slices about 1/3 of an inch thick. Tip: Only cut slices that you can blanch right away as the eggplant will begin to discolor after about 30 minutes.
Step 3. Blanch the eggplant
Fill a large pot with 2/3 water and bring to a boil. Add lemon juice to the already boiling water to give it some extra flavor. Put in the eggplant slices and blanch them for 4 minutes.While waiting to finish, prepare a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process right after blanching. This will ensure that your eggplant slices do not get overcooked.
Step 4. Give the eggplant an ice-bath
As you finish the blanching process, quickly transfer the slices of eggplant to the bowl of ice water that you prepared.
Leave for 4-5 minutes.Then, drain the eggplant slices.Tip: Place the slices on a sheet of paper towel to help dry them quicker.
Step 5. Place the eggplant in a freezer-safe container.
If using a freezer-safe plastic bag, remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. For freezer-safe plastic containers, leave at least half an inch of empty room at the top.Frozen eggplant stays good for about 9 months, so perhaps mark down when it was frozen on the container.
Extra Freezing Tips
- Eggplant tends to expand as it freezes hence why we recommend leaving a bit of extra room.
- Consider “flash freeezing” your eggplant slices spread out on a tray before putting on a container. This will help them not stick together.
Bonus Tips
Don’t want to throw your remaining frozen eggplant? Check out this video for a special eggplant recipe.
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
