WHOLE ROASTED EGGPLANT RECIPES

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 450ºF. Cut the stem and calyx off the eggplant, and cut in half lengthwise. Score large eggplants down the middle with the tip of a knife, being careful not to cut through the skin. (Japanese eggplants and other small eggplants needn’t be scored.)
• Cover a baking sheet with foil and brush the foil with extra virgin olive oil. Place the eggplant on the foil, cut side down. Place in the oven and roast large, fat eggplants for 20 to 25 minutes (depending on the size). Roast small narrow Japanese eggplants (and other varieties) for 15 minutes, or until the skin has begun to shrivel, the edges and cut surface are browned, and the eggplant has softened but it hasn’t collapsed.
• Remove from the oven and use a spatula to detach from the foil if the eggplant is sticking (if a thin surface of browned eggplant stays behind, don’t worry). Place the eggplant halves cut side down on a rack set over a baking sheet, or in a colander. Allow to cool and drain for 15 to 30 minutes.

Steps:

• Prepare a hardwood-charcoal fire in a grill. Let coals cool to medium heat (coals should be covered with ash and glowing red with no black remaining).
• Place eggplants directly on coals and cook, turning occasionally, until skins are blackened and flesh has collapsed, 10–15 minutes. (Alternatively, grill on the grate of a gas or charcoal grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, 15–20 minutes.) Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet and let cool slightly.
• Carefully remove skins from eggplants, leaving stems intact. Place eggplants on a wire rack set inside the same rimmed baking sheet and let stand 30 minutes to allow excess water to drain. Just before serving, split lengthwise and serve.