Aubergine

Solanum melongena Vegetable, Fruit

Aubergine Vegetable, Fruit

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable, Fruit

The Forktionary Angle

"The culinary chameleon of the vegetable world, transforming from a humble fruit into a flavor sponge in countless dishes."

Definition

A versatile, spongy, purple-skinned fruit from the nightshade family, also known as eggplant, widely used in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines for its ability to absorb flavors.

Native Region India
Storage Life (Fridge) 5-7 days
Water Content ~92%

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Aubergine are:

Mild Earthy Slightly Bitter (when raw) Umami (when cooked) Spongy texture

Chef’s Secret

Salt and drain sliced aubergine for 30 minutes before cooking to draw out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a creamier texture and less oil absorption.

Best Substitutes

Zucchini

for texture, milder flavor
Ratio 1:1

Portobello Mushroom

for meaty texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose firm, glossy aubergines with no soft spots or blemishes. Heavier ones typically indicate less internal air pockets.

Recipes Using Aubergine

Greek Low Calorie Main Ingredient Taste Mood

Aubergine Or Eggplant Salad

Experience the smoky depths of flavor in this irresistible aubergine (eggplant) salad! Perfectly roasted aubergines are combined with fresh, vibrant ingredients for a Mediterranean masterpiece. This recipe is perfect as a side dish to roast meat or grilled fish, or as a delightful appetizer. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-make yet incredibly flavorful salad!

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Fruit Spicy Fruit Easy

Aubergine Eggplant Curry With Lemongrass Coconut Milk

Experience a flavor explosion with this vibrant Aubergine Eggplant Curry! Using Japanese aubergines (for their superior texture), this recipe boasts a fragrant lemongrass coconut milk sauce, perfectly complementing the tender eggplant. Impress your taste buds with a quick and easy 40-minute meal.

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Free Of Something European Chick Peas Garbanzos Cuisine

Aubergine Eggplant Assanta

Discover the rich culinary heritage of Thessaloniki with this adapted recipe from Theodore Kyriakou's 'Real Greek Food'! This flavorful Aubergine Eggplant Assanta, a staple in the Greek Jewish community, is perfect as part of a meze spread or a satisfying vegetarian main course. Tender chickpeas simmered to perfection are combined with roasted eggplant, fragrant garlic, and warming spices, creating a dish bursting with Mediterranean sunshine. Prepare to be transported to the vibrant streets of Thessaloniki with each bite!

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Spicy Preparation Lunch Tomatoes

Aubergine Eggplant Pitas

Spice up your lunch with these flavorful Aubergine Eggplant Pitas! This quick and easy recipe combines tender eggplant, a vibrant spicy tomato sauce, and crunchy salad for a delicious and satisfying meal. Ready in under an hour, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch. Get the recipe now!

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Low Carb Course Dietary Low Calorie

Betingan Makdous Stuffed Aubergine Pickle In Olive Oil

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Lebanon with this Betingan Makdous recipe! This stunning mezze features tender aubergines (eggplants) delicately stuffed with a fragrant walnut, garlic, and chili mix, then preserved in olive oil. A simple yet elegant appetizer or side dish, perfect for sharing. Prepare to be amazed by the rich, complex flavors that develop over time. (Preserving time excluded from prep time.)

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Preparation Italian European Low Protein

Aubergine Tomato Parmesan Bake Melanzane Alla Parmigiana

Experience the irresistible flavors of Italy with this Aubergine Tomato Parmesan Bake! This comforting and elegant vegetarian dish, inspired by a Goodfood magazine recipe (April 2009), is even better the second day! Layers of perfectly roasted eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and melty parmesan create a culinary masterpiece. Freezable (before topping), this recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Get ready to be amazed!

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Low Saturated Fat Course European Vegetables

Aubergine Eggplant Tomato Mozzarella Melts

Transform simple ingredients into a delicious and easy Mediterranean-inspired meal! These Aubergine Eggplant Tomato Mozzarella Melts are bursting with flavor. Sweet roasted eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella combine for a taste sensation. Garlic adds a savory kick, making this a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or impressive appetizer. Perfect for eggplant lovers and mozzarella fans alike!

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Condiments Etc Vegetables 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Aubergine And Garlic Chutney 1

Elevate your culinary game with this vibrant Aubergine & Garlic Chutney! Perfect for adding a zesty kick to your favorite curry, this versatile chutney also pairs beautifully with cheese and cold meats. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with flavor, it's a must-try recipe. Prepare it ahead of time – the flavors deepen over time, creating a richer, more complex taste experience. Impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, unbelievably delicious chutney.

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Low Carb Dietary Low Calorie Low Sodium

Aubergines Espanol

Experience the vibrant flavors of Andalucia with this incredibly simple and delicious Aubergines Espanol recipe! A popular tapas dish in Southern Spain, this recipe is perfect as a starter or a light meal. Ready in under 20 minutes, it's so easy anyone can make this tasty treat. Impress your friends and family with authentic Spanish cuisine!

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Served Cold Low Sodium Main Ingredient Vegetables

Aubergine And Pepper Delight

A vibrant and flavorful side dish featuring roasted aubergine and peppers, tossed in fragrant herbs and creamy yogurt. This easy recipe uses high-quality New Zealand avocado oil for a rich, healthy twist. Perfect as a warm side or a refreshing cold salad – ideal for barbecues, summer gatherings, or a weeknight meal.

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60 Minutes Or Less Free Of Something Egg Free Squash

Aubergine Eggplant Courgette And Chickpea Stew

A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian stew bursting with Mediterranean spices! This hearty and satisfying dish features tender aubergine (eggplant), zucchini (courgette), chickpeas, and a rich tomato broth. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a flavorful weekend lunch. Easy to make and packed with goodness!

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Cheese Dietary Cheese Main Dish

Aubergine Tomato And Haloumi Tart

This vibrant and flavorful Aubergine, Tomato & Haloumi Tart is surprisingly easy to make! A flaky pastry crust cradles layers of roasted aubergine, juicy tomatoes, and salty halloumi cheese, all seasoned with fragrant oregano and olives. Ready in under an hour, this impressive tart is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, paired with a crisp green salad.

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