Eggplant questions!

[Cook Chatty Cathy]

How do you prepare Eggplant to freeze?

[CanMan]

How To Freeze Eggplant

[Mama Mangia]

Preparing for Freezing: Wash, peel and dice to cut up into 1/2-inch thick slices. To maintain color, prepare only one eggplant at a time. The flesh turns color quickly when exposed to air. You can also add 1/4 cup of lemon juice or 1 tablespoon ascorbic acid to 5 cups water during blanching.

Blanching Time: Water-blanch for 4 to 5 minutes (up to 1 pound at a time) in 1 gallon of boiling water containing 1/4 cup lemon juice. Cool promptly and drain.

Best Freezing Method(s): Dry Pack-Transfer cool, blanched slices directly into suitable containers, leaving 1/2-inch of headspace. Seal and freeze.

Suitable Packaging: Freezer containers should be moisture and vapor resistant and should not be prone to cracking or breaking at low temperatures. Containers should provide protection against absorbing flavors or odors and should be easy to label. Suitable packaging for freezing eggplant includes freezer-grade plastic bags, rigid plastic containers, glass containers and heavy duty aluminum foil.

Maximum Storage Time: 6 to 8 months at 0ºF.

Thawing: Add frozen eggplant directly to dishes while cooking.

Tips & Shortcuts: To freeze eggplant for frying, separate slices with wax paper or plastic wrap during freezing.

Refrigerating Eggplant: Store fresh eggplant in a perforated plastic bag for 3 to 4 days.

[Cook Chatty Cathy]

Thank you for all the helpful advice. I like that web-site CanMan, and your new Avatar!!!