2. On a gas stove or grill: wash and dry the eggplant, pierce well on all sides with a fork and place directly on the flame. Grill for <timer> until the eggplant is blackened outside and soft on the inside.
3. In the oven: Preheat the oven to 430 °F (top and bottom heat). Wash and dry the eggplant and prick all sides with a fork. Then place on a baking tray and bake for <timer> until eggplant is soft.