Smoked eggplant is a delightful dish that brings out the natural flavors of this versatile vegetable. When cooked on a Traeger grill, the smoky and charred flavors take the eggplant to a whole new level. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking for a unique and delicious side dish, smoked eggplant on a Traeger is a must-try.
Why Smoke Eggplant on a Traeger Grill?
Smoking eggplant on a Traeger grill adds a distinct smoky flavor that brings depth and complexity to the dish. The Traeger grill uses hardwood pellets to produce a consistent and even heat source, allowing the eggplant to be cooked to perfection. The smoky flavor enhances the natural sweetness of the eggplant and gives it a delightful charred taste.
Preparing the Eggplant
Before smoking the eggplant on a Traeger, it is recommended to salt the eggplant slices to draw out excess moisture and reduce bitterness. This step is optional but can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Does Eggplant Need to be Salted Before Grilling?
Many chefs recommend salting eggplant before grilling to remove any bitterness and improve the overall flavor. To salt the eggplant, simply sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This process helps extract excess moisture and reduces bitterness.
After salting, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove the salt. Pat them dry with a paper towel before proceeding with the smoking process.
How to Roast Eggplant Without a Flame
If you don't have access to a flame or grill, you can still roast eggplant in an oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the slices with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper.
Roast the eggplant slices in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown. Make sure to flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
Smoking Eggplant on a Traeger Grill
Now that you've prepared the eggplant, it's time to fire up your Traeger grill and get smoking.
- Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F (107°C) and set it to smoke mode.
- Place the eggplant slices directly on the grill grates.
- Close the lid and let the eggplant smoke for about 1 hour.
- After an hour, increase the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
- Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the eggplant. It should be tender and easily pierced.
- Remove the smoked eggplant from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
The smoked eggplant can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or used as an ingredient in various recipes. It pairs well with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or as a topping for bruschetta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I smoke other vegetables on a Traeger grill?
Absolutely! Traeger grills are versatile and can be used to smoke a variety of vegetables, such as peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Experiment with different vegetables to discover new and exciting flavors.
What other seasonings can I use on smoked eggplant?
While the natural flavors of the smoked eggplant are delicious on their own, you can enhance the dish with various seasonings. Consider adding garlic powder, chili flakes, or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary.
In Conclusion
Smoked eggplant on a Traeger grill is a fantastic dish that brings out the best flavors of this versatile vegetable. Whether you're a vegetarian or a meat lover, this smoky and charred eggplant will surely impress your taste buds. So fire up your Traeger grill, follow the simple steps outlined in this article, and enjoy a delicious and flavorful smoked eggplant dish.
If you want to know other articles similar to Delicious smoked eggplant on traeger: a flavorful dish you can visit the Cooking category.
Related Articles