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How to grill aubergine on BBQ?
Grilling aubergine on BBQ is one of the easiest and tastiest ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable.
If you’ve been wondering how to grill aubergine on BBQ so it comes out perfectly tender with those gorgeous char marks, you’re in the right place.
The good news is that learning how to grill aubergine on BBQ doesn’t require any fancy equipment or years of experience.
With a few simple steps, you can master how to grill aubergine on BBQ like a pro.
In this post, we’ll walk through how to grill aubergine on BBQ from start to finish, including prep tips, cooking times, and flavor ideas.
Let’s fire up that grill.
How to Grill Aubergine on BBQ Perfectly
When you want to know how to grill aubergine on BBQ, the first thing to understand is that aubergine acts like a sponge.
It soaks up oil fast, so you need to prep it right before it hits the grill grates.
Here’s how to grill aubergine on BBQ step by step.
1. Choose the Right Aubergine
For grilling aubergine on BBQ, pick firm, glossy ones that feel heavy for their size.
Avoid any with soft spots or wrinkled skin.
Smaller or medium aubergines work best because they have fewer seeds and a creamier texture once grilled.
2. Slice and Salt the Aubergine
Cut your aubergine into slices about half an inch thick.
You can slice them lengthwise for steaks or crosswise into rounds.
Sprinkle salt over both sides and let them sit for about 30 minutes.
This draws out moisture and reduces bitterness.
It also helps the aubergine hold its shape while grilling.
3. Brush With Oil Generously
After salting, pat the slices dry with a paper towel.
Then brush both sides with olive oil.
Don’t be shy here, as aubergine absorbs oil quickly and a good coating prevents sticking.
A mix of olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of black pepper works wonders for flavor.
Best Way to Cook Aubergine on the Grill
Now that your aubergine is prepped, let’s talk about the actual grilling process.
Getting the heat right is the key to grilling aubergine on BBQ without burning it.
1. Preheat Your Grill Properly
Set your BBQ to medium-high heat.
If you’re using a gas grill, aim for around 400°F.
For charcoal, wait until the coals are covered in white ash.
A hot grill gives you those beautiful char lines without drying out the inside.
2. Oil the Grates
Before placing your aubergine slices down, brush the grill grates with a little oil.
This is a small step that makes a huge difference when grilling aubergine on BBQ.
It prevents the slices from tearing when you flip them.
3. Grill for 4 to 5 Minutes Per Side
Place the aubergine slices on the grill and close the lid.
Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until you see nice grill marks.
Flip carefully with tongs and cook the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes.
The aubergine is done when it feels soft and slightly charred.
4. Watch for Doneness
Perfectly grilled aubergine should be tender all the way through.
If it still feels firm in the middle, give it another minute or two.
You can also move slices to a cooler part of the grill if the outside is browning too fast.
This trick helps when grilling aubergine on BBQ for beginners.
Tips for Grilling Aubergine on BBQ Without Burning It
A few smart moves will keep your aubergine juicy and flavorful every time.
These tips are especially helpful if you’re new to grilling aubergine on BBQ.
1. Avoid Overcrowding the Grill
Give each slice its own space.
If the slices touch, they steam instead of char.
Work in batches if you have a lot of aubergine.
2. Use a Marinade or Glaze
A simple marinade of balsamic vinegar, honey, and soy sauce takes grilled aubergine to the next level.
Brush it on during the last two minutes of cooking.
Just don’t add sugary glazes too early, as they burn quickly.
3. Let It Rest Before Serving
Once you pull the slices off the grill, let them rest for a few minutes.
This lets the juices settle and makes the texture even more velvety.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.
4. Try Whole Grilled Aubergine
Another way of grilling aubergine on BBQ is to cook it whole.
Pierce the skin a few times and place it directly on the grates.
Turn every 10 minutes until the skin is charred and the inside is soft.
Scoop out the flesh and use it for dips like baba ganoush.
So, How Do You Grill Aubergine on BBQ?
Grilling aubergine on BBQ comes down to proper prep, the right heat, and a little patience.
Slice it, salt it, oil it well, and grill over medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes per side.
Once you know how to grill aubergine on BBQ, it becomes a go-to side dish for summer cookouts, burgers, and even salads.
So next time you’re planning a BBQ, don’t skip the aubergine.
It might just steal the show.