Meaning: This quote by Nana Mouskouri, the renowned Greek musician, offers an insight into the culinary technique of cooking aubergines, also known as eggplants. The quote emphasizes the importance of allowing the aubergines to dry out after cooking them in oil, suggesting that this process can help prevent the dish from becoming excessively oily and heavy. Additionally, the quote highlights the fact that aubergines have a tendency to absorb a significant amount of oil during the cooking process.

In Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, aubergines are a popular and versatile ingredient, used in a wide variety of dishes such as moussaka, baba ganoush, and ratatouille. However, their spongy texture and ability to absorb oil can sometimes lead to dishes that are overly greasy if not prepared correctly. This is where the advice offered in the quote becomes particularly relevant.

By cooking the aubergines the day before their intended use and allowing them to dry out, the excess oil is given the opportunity to separate from the flesh of the vegetable. This not only helps to reduce the oiliness of the final dish but also allows the flavors of the aubergine and other ingredients to shine through without being overshadowed by an overwhelming greasiness.

Nana Mouskouri's suggestion to let the aubergines dry of all the oil they absorbed is a practical and effective approach to achieving a lighter and more balanced dish. It demonstrates an understanding of the ingredient and a thoughtful consideration of how to best prepare it to enhance the overall culinary experience. This advice reflects the traditional cooking techniques that have been passed down through generations in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, where aubergines have been a staple ingredient for centuries.

In addition to the culinary implications, this quote also carries a broader message about the importance of patience and preparation in achieving the desired outcome. It underscores the idea that sometimes the best results are achieved through careful planning and allowing processes to unfold over time. This wisdom can be applied not only to cooking but also to various aspects of life where patience and foresight are valuable attributes.

Overall, Nana Mouskouri's quote encapsulates the essence of thoughtful and mindful cooking, emphasizing the significance of understanding ingredients and employing techniques that bring out their best qualities. It serves as a reminder that the secret to a successful dish often lies in the details of preparation and in allowing ingredients to express their full potential.

In conclusion, Nana Mouskouri's advice to cook aubergines the day before and let them dry of all the oil they absorbed represents a valuable insight into the art of cooking and the thoughtful approach to preparing ingredients. It offers a practical technique for achieving a lighter and more flavorful dish while also conveying a broader message about the importance of patience and preparation in cooking and in life in general.