What should you do with an overripe eggplant?

1. Roast it: The flesh of an overripe eggplant will be softer, making it perfect for roasting.

* Simple Roast: Slice the eggplant, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender.

* Roasted Eggplant Dip: Roast the eggplant, then scoop out the flesh and blend it with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for a flavorful dip.

2. Use it in a stew or curry: The softened texture of an overripe eggplant will meld well into a stew or curry.

* Eggplant and Chickpea Curry: Cube the eggplant and add it to your favorite chickpea curry recipe.

* Tomato-Based Eggplant Stew: Simmer the eggplant in a tomato-based stew with vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery.

3. Make eggplant "meatballs" or patties: Overripe eggplant can be mashed and formed into patties or meatballs.

* Eggplant Meatballs: Combine the mashed eggplant with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, then form into small balls and bake or pan-fry.

* Eggplant Patties: Similar to meatballs, but flatter in shape and often pan-fried until crispy.

4. Turn it into a purée: The softened flesh of an overripe eggplant can be blended into a purée.

* Eggplant Spread: Mix the purée with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a flavorful spread.

* Eggplant "Pasta Sauce": Combine the purée with tomato sauce, herbs, and spices for a unique pasta sauce.

Things to Avoid:

* Raw Consumption: Avoid eating an overripe eggplant raw, as its texture will be unpleasant and its flavor may be bitter.

* Salads: The soft texture of an overripe eggplant is not ideal for salads.

Tips:

* Remove the seeds: An overripe eggplant may have more seeds, which can be bitter. Remove the seeds before cooking.

* Salting: Salting the eggplant before cooking can help draw out excess moisture and bitterness.

Remember, overripe eggplant is still edible and flavorful. With a little creativity, you can turn it into a delicious meal.