Additional moisture on the eggplant will form large ice crystals on freezing and further damage the texture, resulting in a soggy thawed product. Divide the slices up into the desired portion sizes you may want to use at any given time. Place each portion of the slices into a resealable freezer bag.
Can you freeze whole eggplant slices?
If you plan to use eggplant for sandwiches, eggplant parm, or a dish that uses whole pieces off eggplant, it’s best to freeze in slices or rounds .
One source claimed 1 Slice the eggplant into 1/4″ slices. 2 Lightly salt to remove bitterness. 3 Blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes, then chill in an ice bath. ( freezing eggplant without blanching is not recommended, as it can get tough .) 4 Lay slices on a cookie sheet in a single layer. 5 Flash freeze for 4-6 hours , and then place in ziploc bags.
Another frequently asked query is “Do you have to Blanch eggplant before freezing?”.
If you do not blanch the eggplant, it will begin losing nutritional value, color, and flavor within a month, even if you freeze it. How do you freeze fresh eggplant without blanching ?
Moreover, can you use eggplant puree from frozen?
Eggplant puree can be used directly from frozen if adding it to a soup or casserole. If you need to defrost the eggplant for use in a dip or puree, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place the sealed bag in a bowl of room-temperature water to speed up the thawing process. How long does eggplant last?
How do you store eggplant for the winter?
Cut the eggplant into approximately one-inch-thick rounds, bake in a 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of the eggplant, just until tender. Once cool, place the slices between wax paper to prevent sticking, and store in freezer bags or containers.
How long does eggplant Parmesan last in freezer?
If properly prepared and stored in an airtight container or freezer bag, eggplant can last for up to 8 months in the freezer. As with all frozen produce, the longer the eggplant remains in the freezer, the poorer the quality will be. Can you freeze eggplant parmesan?
Why is my eggplant soggy after thawing?
Water expands and forms ice crystals when it’s frozen. Those ice crystals melt when thawed, which results in soggy eggplant later. Slice the eggplant into 1-inch rounds. Place rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350° for about 15 minutes. Allow the rounds to cool completely (do NOT skip this step). Place slices in a freezer-safe bag.