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With aubergine, you can make everything from creamy dips and hearty curries to stuffed roasts and even grilled “steaks.”
This shiny purple vegetable is one of the most versatile ingredients in your kitchen, and once you know what you can make with aubergine, you’ll never look at it the same way again.
If you’ve ever stared at an aubergine wondering what to do with it beyond ratatouille, this post is for you.
We’ll explore what you can make with aubergine, the best cooking methods for each dish, and a few tips to make every recipe taste amazing.
Let’s get into it.
What Can You Make With Aubergine?
You can make a surprisingly wide range of dishes with aubergine, from simple weeknight meals to show-stopping centerpieces.
The key is understanding how aubergine behaves when cooked, because that unlocks the door to endless possibilities.
1. Baba Ganoush
One of the most popular things you can make with aubergine is baba ganoush.
This smoky Middle Eastern dip uses roasted aubergine as its base, blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Once you roast an aubergine until the skin is charred and the inside is soft, the flesh becomes creamy and sweet.
That’s why baba ganoush is one of the easiest and most rewarding dishes you can make with aubergine.
2. Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a classic French dish that showcases what you can make with aubergine alongside zucchini, tomatoes, peppers, and onions.
It’s a slow-cooked stew where the aubergine soaks up the flavors of the herbs and other vegetables.
You can serve ratatouille over rice, with crusty bread, or as a side dish.
Because aubergine acts like a sponge, it’s the perfect vegetable to make ratatouille rich and satisfying.
3. Stuffed Aubergine
Stuffed aubergine is one of the heartiest things you can make with aubergine.
You halve the aubergine, scoop out the flesh, and mix it with fillings like minced meat, rice, cheese, or quinoa.
Then you bake it until the shell is tender and the filling is golden.
This is a fantastic dish to make when you want something impressive but still easy.
4. Grilled Aubergine “Steaks”
If you’re wondering what you can make with aubergine that’s quick and healthy, grilled aubergine steaks are the answer.
Slice the aubergine into thick rounds, brush with olive oil, season, and grill.
The result is a smoky, tender slice that works as a main or a side.
You can also make a marinade with balsamic vinegar and herbs to take it up a notch.
5. Aubergine Curry
Aubergine curry is another delicious thing you can make with aubergine.
It works beautifully in Indian and Thai curries because it absorbs spices and coconut milk so well.
Dice the aubergine, sauté it with onions and garlic, then simmer it in your favorite curry sauce.
You can make a hearty vegetarian curry or add chicken or tofu for extra protein.
Best Ways to Cook Aubergine for These Dishes
Knowing what you can make with aubergine also means knowing how to cook it right.
Aubergine can turn greasy or mushy if you rush it, so here are the best methods to make it shine.
1. Roasting
Roasting is ideal for baba ganoush and stuffed aubergine.
Cut the aubergine in half, score the flesh, drizzle with oil, and roast at 400°F until soft.
This method brings out the natural sweetness and makes the flesh easy to scoop.
2. Grilling
Grilling is perfect for aubergine steaks.
Slice thick, salt to draw out moisture, and grill over medium heat.
The char adds a smoky flavor that makes grilled aubergine taste incredible.
3. Sautéing
Sautéing is great for curries and ratatouille.
Cut the aubergine into cubes and cook it in a bit of oil until golden.
The key is to let it brown before adding liquid so it doesn’t turn soggy.
4. Baking
Baking is another excellent way to make aubergine dishes.
You can layer aubergine in a casserole with tomatoes and cheese to make a comforting bake.
It’s a simple way to make a filling meal with minimal effort.
Tips for Making the Best Aubergine Dishes
To make the most of what you can make with aubergine, keep these tips in mind.
1. Salt It First
Salting aubergine before cooking draws out excess moisture and reduces bitterness.
Cut it, sprinkle with salt, let it sit for 30 minutes, then pat dry.
This step makes a big difference in texture.
2. Use Enough Oil
Aubergine absorbs oil quickly, so don’t be shy.
Brush it generously or use a non-stick pan to make sure it cooks evenly.
3. Don’t Undercook It
Undercooked aubergine is rubbery and unpleasant.
Cook it until it’s completely tender and creamy.
That’s when you know you’ve made it right.
4. Pair It With Bold Flavors
Aubergine loves garlic, lemon, cumin, paprika, and herbs like basil and parsley.
These flavors make any aubergine dish taste vibrant.
So, What Can You Make With Aubergine?
You can make a long list of delicious dishes with aubergine, from baba ganoush and ratatouille to curries, grills, and bakes.
The key is to cook it properly by roasting, grilling, sautéing, or baking so it becomes tender and flavorful.
With a little oil, salt, and the right seasonings, you can make aubergine the star of your next meal.
Now that you know what you can make with aubergine, grab one at the store and start cooking.