Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Grilled Aubergines in Oil: A Classic Sicilian Preserving Tradition
Learn how to craft these authentic Sicilian grilled aubergines preserved in oil, bursting with Mediterranean flavours and perfect for year-round enjoyment!
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 2 kg aubergines
- ✓ 1 litre white wine vinegar
- ✓ 5 garlic cloves
- ✓ 20 fresh mint leaves
- ✓ Chilli pepper (to taste, either powdered or sliced)
- ✓ Salt, to taste
- ✓ Extra virgin olive oil, to cover
📊 Nutritional Information
Grilled aubergines preserved in oil are a time-honoured Sicilian treasure, reflecting the resourcefulness of rural cooks. Chargrilled, steeped in vinegar, and infused with fresh mint, garlic, and chilli, they capture the very essence of a Mediterranean summer. Ideal alongside cheeses, cold cuts, or crusty homemade bread, these preserves are a delightful treat to savour at any season.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Wash the aubergines and slice them into rounds about 1 cm thick. Generously sprinkle with coarse salt and leave to drain in a colander for an hour to remove any bitterness.
- 2
Rinse well, pat dry, then grill on both sides until nicely golden.
- 3
Bring the vinegar to the boil and dip the grilled aubergines in for around 4 minutes. Drain and set them on a clean tea towel to dry for at least 2 hours.
- 4
Layer the aubergines in sterilised jars alternating with chopped garlic, mint leaves, and chilli.
- 5
Cover completely with extra virgin olive oil and seal the jars tightly. After two days, check the oil level and top up if needed.
- 6
Store in a cool, dark, dry place for at least a month before enjoying.
💡 Tips and Variations
Why not add some dried oregano or rinsed capers to the mix for extra depth? For a milder touch, try blending white wine with the vinegar.
📦 Storage
- • Keep the grilled aubergines in oil in a well-sterilised jar stored in the pantry for up to six months, ensuring they stay fully submerged in olive oil.
- • Once opened, refrigerate and consume within seven days.
🍷 Pairing
Serve these marinated aubergines with a glass of Menfi Cabernet Sauvignon, a red wine boasting herbaceous notes and a dry, harmonious palate—ideal with preserves and hearty fare.
Give this wonderful Sicilian recipe a go at home—it's a brilliant way to bring a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your table. Perfect for sharing with family or friends, these preserved aubergines offer a lovely excuse to gather and enjoy good food together. Once you try them, I’m sure they’ll become a firm favourite in your kitchen too!
Rate this recipe
Click or tap the stars to rate
Potrebbero interessarti anche:
-
Sicilian Agliata: A Lively Garlic & Herb Dressing for Fish and Summer Veg Other Recipes Quick Recipes Sauces, Dressings & CondimentsA bright, aromatic Sicilian garlic dressing - perfect for drizzling over fried fish, grilled vegetables or warm summer dishes.
-
Sicilian Tomato Extract (Strattu): A Rich Concentrate Bursting with Tradition Other Recipes Jams and preservesDelve into the craft of making Strattu, the traditional Sicilian tomato extract that intensifies the classic flavours of southern Italy.
-
Zogghiu: Sicily’s Zesty Sauce That Elevates Every Roast Other Recipes Quick Recipes Sauces, Dressings & CondimentsExplore the vibrant world of roast accompaniments with Zogghiu, a quintessential Sicilian sauce that brings grilled meats and fish to life. A delightful addition to any table!
-
Borlotti Bean Soup (Pasta câ Fasola 'Ncirata') Other Recipes SoupsDelve into the delicious Borlotti Bean Soup, a summery dish bursting with authentic Sicilian flavours!
-
Parcel-Baked Vegetable Salad: A Vibrant Feast of Flavours and Colours Other Recipes SaladsDive into this colourful medley of seasonal vegetables, packed with flavour and goodness — a wonderfully versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion!