Scrumptious Grilled Adobo Eggplant Recipes You’ll Love

When it comes to summer grilling, eggplant might not be the first vegetable that pops into your mind. But it should be! With its meaty texture and ability to soak up flavors, eggplant is an underappreciated hero of the grill. If you’re looking to spice up your barbecue with something unique, grilled adobo eggplant should be on your radar. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you only thought of eggplant for ratatouille or baba ganoush!

What is Grilled Adobo Eggplant?

Eggplant, or aubergine as it’s known in some parts of the world, is a versatile vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The adobo marinade, typically associated with Filipino cuisine, infuses this humble vegetable with a savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor profile. The name “adobo” actually refers to a cooking method involving marinating food in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. When grilled, the smoky aroma combines beautifully with the adventurous flavors of the adobo seasoning.

If you’re wondering why you should hop on this culinary adventure, here are just a few reasons:

• Nutrient-Rich: Eggplant is low in calories and high in vitamins. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants.
• Flavor Absorption: The porous nature of eggplant means it absorbs marinades like a sponge, amplifying whatever spices you’re using.
• Versatility: Grilled adobo eggplant can be served as a side dish, a main course, or even as a filling for sandwiches and wraps.

With that said, let’s dive into some delicious grilled adobo eggplant recipes that are worth pulling out the grill for!

Recipe 1: Classic Grilled Adobo Eggplant

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized eggplants
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium for a healthier option)
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, brown sugar, and pepper. Mix them well until the sugar dissolves.

2. Slice the Eggplant: Cut the eggplants lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick slices. This thickness ensures they grill well without falling apart.

3. Marinate: Place the sliced eggplants in a shallow dish or a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor).

4. Preheat the Grill: While the eggplant is soaking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Don’t forget to oil the grates to prevent sticking!

5. Grill Time: Remove the eggplants from the marinade, shaking off the excess. Brush them lightly with olive oil and place them on the grill. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they’re tender and have those lovely grill marks.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy your delicious grilled adobo eggplant!

Recipe 2: Grilled Adobo Eggplant Tacos

Who needs traditional meat when you can have grilled eggplant tacos?

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant
• 1/2 cup adobo marinade (similar to the first recipe)
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Eggplant: Use the marinade from the first recipe, and let the eggplant slices bathe in it for at least 30 minutes.

2. Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Grill the marinated eggplants until they’re tender and charred, about 5-7 minutes on each side.

3. Warm the Tortillas: Place the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side, just until warm.

4. Assemble Tacos: Layer the grilled eggplant, avocado slices, and shredded cabbage onto each tortilla. Top with feta cheese if desired.

5. Serve with Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and enjoy a Mexican twist using eggplant!

Recipe 3: Grilled Adobo Eggplant Salad

When you’re craving something light and refreshing, this grilled adobo eggplant salad hits the spot.

Ingredients:

• 2 small eggplants
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

2. Slice & Marinate: Cut the eggplants into rounds and toss them in the marinade. Let them sit for about 20 minutes.

3. Grill: Preheat your grill while the eggplants marinade. Grill the rounds for about 5 minutes on each side.

4. Toss Salad: In a large bowl, combine the grilled eggplant, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil. Drizzle with the leftover balsamic marinade.

5. Serve: Top with grated Parmesan cheese and more fresh basil for a refreshing summer salad!

How to Store and Reheat Grilled Adobo Eggplant

Maybe you’ve made a bit too much or simply want to meal prep for the week. No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your grilled goodies:

Storing:

• Refrigeration: Allow the grilled eggplant to cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last about 3-5 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze it, make sure it’s cooled down, use a freezer-safe bag or container, and keep it for about 2-3 months.

Reheating:

• Microwave: For a quick reheat, pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, depending on quantity.
• Oven: Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for around 10 minutes, which helps retain the grilled texture.

Conclusion

Grilled adobo eggplant is not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience! One that invites you to savor, explore, and perhaps even make some new friends at the grill. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, and the flavor is simply sensational. Whether you enjoy it in tacos, as a salad, or simply on its own, grilled eggplant will definitely elevate your grilled menu game. So, fire up that grill, and give these recipes a go. Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables with the adobo marinade?
Absolutely! Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and even mushrooms work beautifully with an adobo marinade.

2. Is eggplant healthy?
Yes! Eggplant is low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in antioxidants, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.

3. What can I use instead of soy sauce?
For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. Both provide that savory flavor without the gluten.

4. Can I grill the eggplant without marinating it?
While marinating enhances the flavor, you can grill eggplant directly after brushing it with olive oil and seasoning it with salt and pepper.

5. How can I tell if the eggplant is ripe?
Look for an eggplant that is firm to the touch and has a smooth, shiny skin. Avoid any that have blemishes or are overly soft.