how to make pickled eggplant

Charlotte

3 min read

·

02-02-2025

10

0

Share

Pickled eggplant, with its vibrant purple hue and tangy flavor, is a delightful addition to any meal. This versatile condiment can elevate sandwiches, salads, and even grilled meats. This guide will walk you through a simple yet effective method for making your own batch of delicious pickled eggplant at home. Making pickled eggplant is easier than you think!

Choosing and Preparing Your Eggplant

Selecting the Right Eggplant: Opt for firm, glossy eggplants with smooth skin and no bruises. Avoid eggplants that are soft or have blemishes, as these may not pickle well. Smaller eggplants tend to pickle more quickly and evenly.

Cleaning and Slicing: Wash the eggplant thoroughly and remove the stem. You can slice the eggplant into rounds, half-moons, or even long strips, depending on your preference. Thinner slices will pickle faster.

Important Considerations Before Pickling

• Salt the Eggplant: Before pickling, salting the eggplant is crucial. This draws out excess moisture, preventing the pickles from becoming mushy. Slice the eggplant, place it in a colander, and generously sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or even an hour, allowing the salt to work its magic. After salting, rinse the eggplant thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat it dry with paper towels. This step is vital for perfectly crisp pickles.
• Sterilizing Jars: Cleanliness is key when making pickles. Sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. This prevents mold and spoilage.

The Pickling Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant (about 1 pound), sliced
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, bay leaf (if using), and garlic (if using). Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
2. Pack the Jars: Gently pack the eggplant slices into the sterilized jars, leaving about half an inch of headspace at the top.
3. Pour Brine: Carefully pour the boiling brine over the eggplant slices, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave that half-inch of headspace.
4. Seal and Process: Wipe the rims of the jars clean, place the lids and rings on tightly, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This ensures the pickles are properly sealed and will last longer. If you don't have a water bath canner, you can skip this step, but your pickles may not last as long. Refrigerate immediately after cooling completely.
5. Cool and Store: Let the jars cool completely. You should hear a satisfying "pop" as the lids seal. Store the pickled eggplant in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.

Tips for the Perfect Pickled Eggplant

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your pickled eggplant. Red pepper flakes add a kick, while dill offers a more herbaceous note.
• Don't Overcrowd Jars: Leave enough headspace to prevent the pickles from becoming too soft.
• Check for Seals: After cooling, make sure all the jars have sealed properly. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and consumed promptly.
• Patience is Key: Allow the pickled eggplant to sit for at least a week before tasting, to allow the flavors to fully develop. The flavor will improve even more over time.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Pickled eggplant is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a condiment on sandwiches, burgers, and tacos. Add it to salads for a tangy crunch. It also pairs well with grilled meats and cheeses.

Store your pickled eggplant in the refrigerator. Properly sealed jars should last for several months. Unsealed jars should be consumed within a week or two.

This recipe provides a starting point for creating your own unique pickled eggplant. Experiment with different flavor combinations and find your perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy. Enjoy!