Storage
Do not store aubergines in the fridge, but in a cool place (15-17°C), e.g. in a pantry.

Ideally, store aubergines packed, then they will keep for around 5-7 days.

Raw aubergines can be kept in the freezer at -18°C for 12 months. Just before freezing, blanch for 2 minutes (= brief heating). Store in a well-sealed plastic container.

Do you have any leftover cooked aubergines? Cooked aubergines can be kept in the fridge for 2 days or in the freezer for 3 months.

Preparing
Remove the crown and cut into slices or cubes. If you are going to stuff an aubergine, it is best to leave the crown on for firmness.

Cut the aubergine briefly before use, as it browns quickly.

Aubergines have a short cooking time, but you can't eat them raw! This is because aubergines contain 'solanine', a natural substance that can cause gastrointestinal problems. After only 2 minutes of heating, this substance is completely gone and the fruit is easily digestible. So after just 2 minutes of blanching (brief heating), you can enjoy this tasty vegetable without any worries!

Due to its neutral flavour, aubergine can be combined with many herbs and other flavours. These herbs and flavours are absorbed perfectly into the spongy flesh.

After cooking, the flesh thickens to a firm, almost meaty consistency. The vegetable is therefore used as a meat substitute in many dishes.

Storage

Raw
Cool place: 5-7 days
Frozen: 12 months

Cooked
Refrigerated: 2 days
Deep-freeze: 3 months

Preparation times

Cooking: 5 minutes
Stir-frying: 8 minutes
Microwave oven: 7 minutes
Grilling: 4 - 5 minutes
Braising: approx. 20 minutes
Steaming: approx. 8 minutes

Cleaning aubergine

See preparing.