Italian Marinated Eggplant Antipasto

By á-18

The perfect starter for a great meal. Strips of eggplant are packed into jars of Italian marinade until ready for use.

Ingredients

• 1 pound eggplant
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup white wine vinegar
• 1 fresh or dried long chili, finely chopped (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Preparation

Step 1

Wash and pare eggplant. Slice into 1/2-inch thick slices, and then cut again into 1/2-inch strips.

Drop strips into a pan of boiling water. When the water returns to a boil, remove pan from heat and let stand for 15 minutes. The strips will become translucent and sink to the bottom.

Drain in colander and place a small plate on top of eggplant, adding a heavy weight (such as a gallon jug of water). Let it drain for at least an hour.

In a medium bowl, stir together the rest of the ingredients to make the marinade, and then add the eggplant, stirring gently.

Refrigerate and serve within 2 days, or pack into 2 small jars or 1 pint jar and twist the lid(s) on tightly. Process in a hot water bath for 5 minutes (I boiled mine for 5 minutes instead). Keep refrigerated after opening.