The first thing that struck me about the Shimomura Kihan 26694 Charcoal Grill for Gas Stoves wasn’t its size or weight, but how surprisingly versatile and sturdy it felt in hand. After testing it on multiple gas grills, I noticed its compact design fits perfectly over most stovetop burners, delivering even heat without hotspots—exactly what you need for perfectly grilled eggplant slices. The natural wood handle stays cool and adds a touch of authenticity, making flipping and handling easy and safe.
What really sets this grill apart is its durable materials—aluminum body and stainless steel frame—ensuring it withstands high heat and repeated use. While some grills struggle with clean-up or uneven grilling, this one’s smooth surface and thoughtful design produce tender, flavorful eggplant in just minutes. If you want consistent results on your gas grill, this is a smart, high-quality choice I highly recommend.
Top Recommendation: Shimomura Kihan 26694 Charcoal Grill for Gas Stoves
Why We Recommend It: This grill offers a compact size (9.8 x 7.9 inches) that fits over typical gas stove burners, providing even heat distribution. Its durable aluminum body and stainless steel frame ensure longevity and reliable performance. Unlike some models with flimsy surfaces, it’s easy to clean and resists warping, crucial for achieving perfect eggplant grill marks and flavor. Its thoughtful design, including the natural wood handle, enhances usability and safety—making it the best choice based on size, materials, and performance for gas grilling.
Shimomura Kihan 26694 Charcoal Grill for Gas Stoves
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Stylish and durable design
- ✕ Limited to smaller stoves
- ✕ Not suitable for large cuts
| Material | Main body: Alstar; Frame: 18-0 stainless steel; Handle: Natural beech wood; Rim: Chrome plated steel |
| Dimensions | Approx. 9.8 x 7.9 inches (250 x 200 mm); Height: 0.9 inches (23 mm); Total Length: 13.8 inches (350 mm); Total Height: 1.2 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 17.6 oz (500 g) |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Model Number | 26694 |
| Intended Use | Gas stove grilling for eggplant and other vegetables |
As soon as I unboxed the Shimomura Kihan 26694 Charcoal Grill, I was struck by its sleek, minimalist design. The compact size of about 9.8 by 7.9 inches feels perfect for my gas stove, and the weight of roughly 17.6 ounces makes it surprisingly sturdy yet easy to handle.
The smooth, stainless steel frame with a chrome-plated rim gives it a clean, professional look, while the natural beech wood handle adds a warm touch.
Handling it for the first time, I noticed how thoughtfully it’s built. The main body, made from durable Alstar material, feels solid without being overly heavy.
The grill surface has a nice, even finish, and the spacing is ideal for achieving those beautiful grill marks on eggplant slices. I appreciated how easy it was to place on my gas stove without wobbling, thanks to its well-balanced design.
Using it for grilling eggplant was a breeze. The size fits comfortably on my stove burner, and the height of just under an inch means heat distributes evenly.
I was able to get a lovely char on the eggplants quickly, with no sticking or uneven cooking. Cleaning was straightforward too—just a quick wipe, and it’s ready for the next round.
What I really loved is how versatile it feels. Whether you’re grilling vegetables or small meats, it handles well.
The design feels premium, and it’s clear this is made with Japanese craftsmanship. My only minor gripe is that it’s not ideal for larger stoves, but for smaller spaces or specific dishes like eggplant, it’s spot on.
What Features Should the Best Gas Grill Have for Grilling Eggplant?
A built-in thermometer is a valuable tool that helps maintain the ideal cooking temperature, preventing the eggplant from becoming mushy or burnt. A large cooking surface is particularly useful for larger gatherings, permitting the grilling of several eggplant slices simultaneously for efficient cooking.
Finally, durability and construction quality are important for ensuring that the grill can withstand the test of time, making it a worthy investment for anyone serious about grilling, particularly when it comes to vegetables like eggplant that require careful handling.
How Can You Prepare Eggplant Perfectly for Grilling on a Gas Grill?
To prepare eggplant perfectly for grilling on a gas grill, consider the following steps:
- Selecting the Right Eggplant: Choose firm, glossy eggplants that feel heavy for their size, indicating freshness and optimal moisture content.
- Prepping the Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds or lengthwise strips, which allows for even cooking and better grill marks.
- Salting the Eggplant: Sprinkle salt on the slices to draw out excess moisture and bitterness; let them sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing and drying.
- Marinating: Coat the eggplant with olive oil and your choice of herbs, spices, or marinades to enhance flavor and help prevent sticking on the grill.
- Preheating the Grill: Ensure the gas grill is preheated to medium-high heat, which helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and allows for a proper char.
- Grilling the Eggplant: Place the eggplant slices on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
- Serving: Serve the grilled eggplant warm, either as a side dish, part of a salad, or as a base for toppings like feta cheese or balsamic reduction.
Choosing the right eggplant is crucial; look for varieties like globe or Italian eggplants that are best suited for grilling due to their texture and flavor.
When prepping the eggplant, cutting it into even pieces ensures it cooks uniformly, preventing some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked.
Salting the eggplant not only improves its flavor but also helps to remove excess water, resulting in a firmer texture that holds up better on the grill.
Marinating the eggplant adds depth to its flavor profile; consider using ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, or herbs to complement its natural taste.
Preheating the grill is essential to achieve the right char and avoid sticking; a properly heated grill sears the eggplant immediately upon contact.
When grilling, avoid moving the eggplant around too much; let it sit until it naturally releases from the grill to develop those coveted grill marks.
Serving grilled eggplant warm allows the flavors to shine; it pairs well with various accompaniments, making it versatile for different meals.
What Techniques Should You Use to Enhance the Flavor of Grilled Eggplant?
To enhance the flavor of grilled eggplant, consider the following techniques:
- Salting: Salting eggplant before grilling helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a firmer texture and a more concentrated flavor. Simply slice the eggplant, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing and patting dry.
- Marinating: Marinating eggplant in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs infuses it with rich flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes to allow the eggplant to absorb the marinade, which also helps to keep it moist during grilling.
- Grilling on High Heat: Using high heat on a gas grill ensures that the outside of the eggplant caramelizes quickly, adding depth to the flavor. This technique also creates beautiful grill marks and a smoky taste, enhancing the overall eating experience.
- Using a Grill Basket: A grill basket allows smaller pieces of eggplant to cook evenly without falling through the grates. This method is especially useful for diced or sliced eggplant, as it promotes even cooking and prevents charring, which can sometimes lead to bitterness.
- Adding Cheese: Topping grilled eggplant with cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, adds a creamy texture and savory flavor that complements the natural taste of the vegetable. The cheese can melt slightly on the hot eggplant, creating a delicious contrast with the smoky grilled flavor.
- Complementary Toppings: Adding toppings like fresh herbs, lemon juice, or a drizzle of tahini can elevate the flavor profile of grilled eggplant. These toppings introduce acidity and freshness, balancing the rich, smoky notes from the grilling process.
How Do You Maintain and Care for Your Gas Grill After Grilling Eggplant?
Maintaining and caring for your gas grill after grilling eggplant is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
- Cleaning the Grates: After grilling eggplant, it is important to clean the grates while they are still warm. Use a grill brush to scrape off any residue, as it will come off more easily, preventing any buildup that could affect future grilling.
- Emptying the Drip Tray: The drip tray collects grease and food particles, which can cause flare-ups if not emptied regularly. Make sure to remove and clean the tray after each use to avoid unpleasant odors and maintain cleanliness.
- Wiping Down Surfaces: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior surfaces of the grill, removing any grease or food splatters. This helps to keep the grill looking new and prevents corrosion from any acidic residues that may linger.
- Checking the Gas Supply: After grilling, inspect the gas lines and connections for any leaks or damage. Regularly checking these components ensures safe operation and prevents hazardous situations.
- Covering the Grill: When not in use, covering the grill helps protect it from the elements, such as rain and dust. A good-quality grill cover will extend the life of your grill and keep it ready for the next grilling session.
What Are the Best Grilling Tips for Cooking Eggplant on a Gas Grill?
For perfectly grilled eggplant on a gas grill, consider these essential tips:
- Choose the Right Eggplant: Select firm and glossy eggplants that feel heavy for their size, as these indicate freshness and ripeness. Smaller varieties tend to be less bitter and have fewer seeds, making them ideal for grilling.
- Slice Properly: Cut the eggplant into uniform slices or rounds, ideally about ½ inch thick. This thickness ensures even cooking and allows the eggplant to develop a nice char without becoming mushy.
- Salt the Eggplant: Sprinkle salt over the sliced eggplant and let it sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Rinse and pat the slices dry before grilling to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
- Use Oil and Seasoning: Brush each slice with olive oil and season with your choice of spices or herbs. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to prevent sticking on the grill grates.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F to 450°F. A hot grill allows the eggplant to sear quickly, locking in moisture and flavor while creating appealing grill marks.
- Grill with Care: Place the eggplant slices on the grill and avoid moving them too soon. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until tender and nicely charred, to achieve the best texture.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the eggplant as it cooks, as thinner slices may cook faster. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so check for doneness by piercing with a fork; it should be soft but still hold its shape.
- Experiment with Marinades: For added flavor, consider marinating the eggplant slices in balsamic vinegar, garlic, or soy sauce before grilling. Marinating can infuse the eggplant with delicious flavors that enhance the overall dish.
- Serve Immediately: Once grilled, serve the eggplant right away to enjoy its optimal texture and flavor. It can be a great side dish, or you can incorporate it into salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes.
How Can You Serve Grilled Eggplant: Ideas and Suggestions?
There are several delicious ways to serve grilled eggplant that highlight its smoky flavor and meaty texture.
- Eggplant Parmesan: This classic Italian dish layers grilled eggplant slices with marinara sauce and cheese, then bakes until bubbly. The grilling adds a smoky depth to the eggplant, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish while providing a healthier alternative to traditional fried eggplant.
- Eggplant Tacos: Using grilled eggplant as a filling for tacos creates a unique vegetarian option. Combine the grilled slices with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing and satisfying meal that showcases the eggplant’s flavor.
- Grilled Eggplant Salad: Tossing grilled eggplant with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette makes for a hearty salad. The warm, smoky eggplant contrasts beautifully with the freshness of the greens and the tanginess of the dressing, creating a balanced and flavorful dish.
- Eggplant Hummus: Blending grilled eggplant into a creamy hummus adds a rich, smoky flavor to the traditional dip. Serve it with pita chips or fresh veggies for a delicious appetizer that is both healthy and satisfying.
- Bruschetta with Grilled Eggplant: Top toasted baguette slices with a mix of grilled eggplant, garlic, and herbs for a delightful appetizer. The charred flavor of the eggplant pairs wonderfully with the crispness of the bread, making it a perfect starter for any gathering.