What pairs well with eggplant?

What Pairs Well with Eggplant?

Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. Its slightly bitter flavor and meaty texture make it a great addition to many recipes. But what pairs well with eggplant? In this article, we’ll explore some of the best combinations to elevate your eggplant dishes.

Classic Combinations

Eggplant is a staple in many Mediterranean and Italian cuisines, and for good reason. Here are some classic combinations that pair well with eggplant:

• Tomatoes and Mozzarella: A classic Italian combination, eggplant, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese come together to create a flavorful and textured dish. Try grilling or roasting the eggplant and serving it with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
• Garlic and Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano complement the earthy flavor of eggplant perfectly. Add some minced garlic to the mix for an added depth of flavor.
• Mediterranean Spices: Sumac, cumin, and paprika add a warm, aromatic flavor to eggplant dishes. Try using them in a marinade or rub before grilling or roasting the eggplant.

Meat and Seafood Pairings

Eggplant can also be paired with meat and seafood for added protein and flavor. Here are some options to consider:

• Ground Beef and Tomato Sauce: A classic spaghetti Bolognese, eggplant can be used to add texture and flavor to this dish. Simply sauté the eggplant with ground beef and tomato sauce.
• Grilled Chicken and Feta: Feta cheese adds a tangy, salty flavor to eggplant dishes. Try grilling chicken breast and serving it with roasted eggplant and crumbled feta cheese.
• Shrimp and Pesto: Pesto sauce is a great match for eggplant, and adding shrimp takes this dish to the next level. Try sautéing the shrimp and eggplant in a mixture of pesto and olive oil.

Vegetable and Grain Pairings

Eggplant can also be paired with other vegetables and grains for added texture and flavor. Here are some options to consider:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in eggplant, making it a great match for other roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts.
• Quinoa and Black Beans: Quinoa and black beans add protein and fiber to eggplant dishes. Try sautéing the eggplant with onions, garlic, and quinoa, and serving it with black beans and a squeeze of lime juice.
• Rice and Lentils: Rice and lentils are a classic combination that pairs well with eggplant. Try cooking the lentils and rice together with diced eggplant and spices for a hearty, comforting dish.

Sweet Treats

Eggplant can even be used in sweet treats like cakes and muffins. Here are some options to consider:

• Eggplant Cake: Eggplant puree can be used in place of some of the oil or butter in cake recipes, adding moisture and flavor to the final product.
• Muffins and Bread: Grilled or roasted eggplant can be used in muffin and bread recipes, adding texture and flavor to the final product.

Conclusion

Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. Whether you’re looking for classic combinations, meat and seafood pairings, vegetable and grain pairings, or sweet treats, there’s an eggplant pairing out there for you. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your new favorite combination!

Eggplant Pairing Cheat Sheet

Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you get started:

Remember, the key to pairing eggplant is to experiment and find what you like!