What To Know
- When done right, fried aubergine cubes become incredibly crispy on the outside and soft and tender on the inside, a perfect balance of textures.
- Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these tips and tricks will help you master the art of how to fry aubergine cubes.
- The type of oil you use and the temperature at which you fry the aubergine cubes are crucial for achieving crispy results.
Aubergine, also known as eggplant, is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in countless ways. But one of the most delicious and satisfying methods is frying. When done right, fried aubergine cubes become incredibly crispy on the outside and soft and tender on the inside, a perfect balance of textures.
This blog post will guide you through every step, from selecting the right aubergine to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these tips and tricks will help you master the art of how to fry aubergine cubes.
Choosing the Right Aubergine
The first step to achieving delicious fried aubergine cubes is selecting the right aubergine. Look for firm, glossy aubergines with smooth skin and no bruises or soft spots. Avoid aubergines that feel heavy for their size, as they may be watery.
Preparing the Aubergine for Frying
Once you have your aubergine, it’s time to prepare it for frying.
1. Cut into Cubes: Using a sharp knife, cut the aubergine into cubes of roughly 1-inch size. This ensures even cooking and allows the cubes to crisp up nicely.
2. Salt and Drain: Place the cut aubergine cubes in a colander and generously sprinkle with salt. This will draw out excess moisture from the aubergine, preventing it from becoming soggy when fried. Let the aubergine sit for at least 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
3. Dry Thoroughly: It’s crucial to dry the aubergine cubes thoroughly before frying. Excess moisture will create steam in the hot oil, leading to soggy results. Pat the cubes dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
Choosing the Right Oil and Temperature
The type of oil you use and the temperature at which you fry the aubergine cubes are crucial for achieving crispy results.
1. High Smoke Point Oil: Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil. These oils can withstand high temperatures without breaking down or producing harmful fumes.
2. Proper Temperature: Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when you drop in a small piece of bread. A good rule of thumb is to heat the oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C).
Frying the Aubergine Cubes
Now it’s time to fry the aubergine cubes.
1. Batch Frying: To prevent overcrowding the pan and ensure even browning, fry the aubergine cubes in batches. Add enough cubes to the hot oil so they are not touching.
2. Frying Time: Fry the aubergine cubes for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy cubes.
3. Remove and Drain: Once the aubergine cubes are cooked, carefully remove them from the pan using a slotted spoon or a spider strainer. Drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Seasoning and Serving
Fried aubergine cubes are incredibly versatile and can be seasoned and served in numerous ways.
1. Salt and Pepper: A simple sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper can enhance the natural flavor of the aubergine.
2. Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes.
3. Dipping Sauces: Serve your fried aubergine cubes with a variety of dipping sauces, such as hummus, tahini sauce, yogurt sauce, or a spicy chili sauce.
Variations and Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the basics of how to fry aubergine cubes, you can experiment with different variations and ideas.
1. Stuffed Aubergine: Fry the aubergine cubes and then stuff them with a mixture of cheese, herbs, and spices. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Aubergine Salad: Combine fried aubergine cubes with other vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, for a refreshing and flavorful salad.
3. Aubergine Pizza: Use fried aubergine cubes as a topping for pizza, along with your favorite cheese and other ingredients.
A Final Word: Aubergine Perfection
Mastering the art of how to fry aubergine cubes is a journey of culinary discovery. With a little practice and experimentation, you’ll be able to create a dish that is both delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy the crispy texture, the rich flavor, and the endless possibilities of this versatile vegetable.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use frozen aubergine for frying?
A: While you can technically fry frozen aubergine, it’s not recommended. Frozen aubergine tends to release more moisture, leading to soggy results. It’s best to use fresh aubergine for optimal frying.
Q: How do I prevent the aubergine from absorbing too much oil?
A: The key is to dry the aubergine cubes thoroughly before frying and to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will allow the oil to heat up properly and prevent the aubergine from absorbing too much oil.
Q: What if my aubergine cubes are not crispy?
A: If your aubergine cubes are not crispy, it’s likely that the oil was not hot enough or the aubergine was not dried thoroughly. Make sure the oil is hot enough to sizzle when you drop in a small piece of bread, and pat the aubergine cubes dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel before frying.
Q: Can I fry aubergine cubes in advance?
A: Yes, you can fry aubergine cubes in advance. Allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Q: What are some other ways to cook aubergine?
A: Aubergine can be cooked in many ways, including grilling, roasting, baking, and even microwaving. Experiment with different cooking methods to discover your favorite.
