Vegetable | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Carb Keto

Eggplant

Solanum melongena Allergen-Free
Eggplant

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean|Middle Eastern|Asian
  • Seasonality Summer|Early Fall
  • Source Solanum melongena plant

The Forktionary Angle

"The culinary chameleon, effortlessly absorbing flavors and transforming into a meaty, creamy delight in countless cuisines."

Definition

A versatile, fleshy fruit, botanically a berry, recognized for its spongy texture and mild, slightly bitter taste, commonly used as a vegetable.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Slightly Bitter (when raw), Umami (when cooked)
TextureSpongy, Creamy (when cooked), Firm (when raw)
AromaEarthy, Mild
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Absorption Property

High (oil sponge)

Global Varieties

Many (e.g., Globe, Japanese, Graffiti)

Water Content

~92%

Nutrition Facts

Per 82 g (1 cup chopped)
Calories25 kcal
Total Fat0.2 g
Saturated Fat0.0 g
Trans Fat0.0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.0 g
Total Carbohydrate5.9 g
Dietary Fiber3.0 g
Total Sugars3.5 g
Calcium9 mg
Iron0.2 mg
Potassium229 mg

Chef’s Secret

Salting eggplant slices for 30 minutes before cooking draws out moisture, reduces bitterness, and prevents it from absorbing too much oil.

Substitutions

Best Match

Zucchini

1:1

Similar moisture content and texture when cooked, milder flavor.

Portobello Mushroom

1:1

Offers a meaty texture and umami flavor, great for grilling or roasting.

Bell Pepper (any color)

1:1

Provides a different flavor but similar bulk and texture in stews or stir-fries.

Okra

1:1

Offers a similar texture and ability to absorb flavors, but can be mucilaginous.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, glossy eggplants that feel heavy for their size, with no soft spots or discoloration.

Flavor Pairings

Tomatoes Garlic Onions Feta Cheese Olives Lamb Chickpeas Herbs (Basil Oregano).

Recipes Using Eggplant

Seasonal Meat Poultry Cuisine

All American County Fair Prize Winning Chili

This legendary chili recipe, perfected over years, consistently wins raves! Make a massive batch (enough for 30-40 servings!) to freeze and enjoy for months. Its rich, flavorful profile (cumin-free!) is packed with heat and satisfying goodness. Perfect for chili dogs, or topped with cheddar, sour cream, bread, and nacho chips. Share your county fair success (and maybe your favorite pie recipe!) with me if you win!

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Stove Top Low Carb 60 Minutes Or Less Vegetarian

Alton Brown's Eggplant Pasta

This isn't your grandma's pasta! Alton Brown's genius Eggplant Pasta is a surprisingly light and flavorful dish that's completely pasta-free. Imagine tender roasted eggplant, bursting with rich umami notes, tossed in a vibrant sauce. Perfect as a sophisticated first course or a satisfying light lunch, served alongside crusty bread for dipping. This recipe is quick to make and surprisingly delicious!

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White Rice Vegan 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Amazing Turkish Confetti Rice

Experience a taste of Izmir with this vibrant Turkish Confetti Rice! A recipe passed down from a family cook in Turkey, this dish is unbelievably delicious and visually stunning. The perfect side for any occasion, its bursts of color and incredible flavor will leave you wanting more. Prepare to be amazed!

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Healthy 2 Equipment Easy Course

Another Eggplant Stew

A vibrant and flavorful vegan eggplant stew, inspired by a family recipe! This quick and easy 20-minute dish features tender eggplant, sweet carrots, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a potluck contribution, this recipe is guaranteed to impress even non-vegan eaters. Enjoy this delicious and healthy vegan option!

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Vegetables Equipment Dietary 60 Minutes Or Less

Armenian Eggplant Aubergine Casserole

Indulge in this irresistible Armenian Eggplant Aubergine Casserole! A healthy and flavorful comfort food, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe features tender eggplant, savory onions, and bright peppers, all baked to perfection in a rich and aromatic sauce. Easy to follow instructions and a touch of fresh herbs make this a must-try recipe for eggplant lovers!

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Greek Meat Cuisine European

Authentic Greek Moussaka

Experience the taste of Greece with this authentic Moussaka recipe, passed down through generations! This comforting casserole features tender eggplant, rich meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel topping. A family favorite, this recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. Prepare to be amazed!

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Main Ingredient Vegetables Main Dish Meat

Authentic Traditional Moussaka

Experience the taste of authentic Greek Moussaka, a national treasure! This recipe, straight from Zakynthos Island, will redefine your expectations. Prepare to be amazed by layers of tender eggplant, rich meat sauce, and creamy bechamel. A family recipe passed down through generations, this Moussaka is guaranteed to impress. Discover the secret to a truly unforgettable Greek culinary experience.

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Dips Time To Make Low Cholesterol Low Saturated Fat

Baba Ganouy Baba Ghanoush Baba Gannoujh

Experience the rich, smoky flavor of authentic Baba Ghanoush! This creamy eggplant dip is perfect for veggies, pita bread, toasted pompadams, tortilla chips, or as a unique spread for sandwiches. Our recipe uses perfectly roasted eggplants for a luxuriously smooth texture and unforgettable taste. Elevate your appetizers or add a delicious twist to your meals!

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Low Saturated Fat Asian Garnishes Vegetables

Baba Ghanouj Roast Eggplant Puree

Experience the smoky, creamy delight of homemade Baba Ghanoush! This irresistible recipe, inspired by SallyBernstein.com, elevates the classic eggplant dip to new heights. Perfectly roasted eggplant, vibrant lemon, and nutty tahini combine for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Easy to follow instructions guide you to a restaurant-quality dip in under 2 hours. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or a flavorful side dish!

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Meat Rosh Hashana Healthy 2 Preparation

Bademjan Delicious Persian Stew

Dive into the rich flavors of Bademjan (Eggplant) – a comforting and authentic Persian stew! This recipe, easily adaptable for vegetarians, pairs perfectly with fluffy Persian rice (polo). Impress your family and friends with this vibrant and flavorful dish, bursting with aromatic spices and tender eggplant. Get ready for a culinary journey to Iran!

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Vegetarian Broil Holiday Event Preparation

Baked Eggplant With Portabellas And Tomato Sauce Vegetarian

This irresistible baked eggplant recipe is a vegetarian delight! Layers of tender eggplant, savory portabella mushrooms (or button mushrooms), and rich tomato sauce are topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. A hearty and satisfying dish perfect as a main course or a flavorful side, it's guaranteed to leave you craving more! Even better the next day (if there are leftovers!). Easily customizable to your taste – add as much cheese and mushrooms as your heart desires!

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Time To Make French Cuisine 4 Hours Or Less

Baked Ratatouille

A stunningly delicious Baked Ratatouille recipe, inspired by Gourmet Magazine and perfect for your next dinner party! This hearty, flavorful dish features tender eggplant, sweet bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all baked to perfection in a 9-inch pie dish. Impress your guests with this elegant and easy-to-follow recipe – a true crowd-pleaser from Zaar World Tour II.

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Dietary Easy Pork Cuisine

Baked Rigatoni With Eggplant And Sausage

Tyler Florence's irresistible Baked Rigatoni recipe! This easy, family-friendly dish elevates classic baked ziti with tender eggplant, savory sausage, and a bubbly mozzarella topping. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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60 Minutes Or Less Vegetarian Main Ingredient Oven

Bean Casserole With Eggplant And Red Pepper

This vibrant vegetarian bean casserole is a quick and easy one-pan wonder, perfect for a weeknight meal! Featuring tender eggplant, sweet red peppers, and hearty beans in a flavorful herb-infused tomato sauce, this recipe is easily customizable – use canned tomatoes for extra convenience. Get ready for a satisfying and delicious vegetarian feast in under an hour!

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Cuisine Number Of Servings Vegetables Seasonal

Best Eggplant Aubergine Lasagna

This incredibly easy Eggplant Aubergine Lasagna recipe is a crowd-pleaser, packed with nutrition, and perfect for meal prepping! Enjoy layers of tender eggplant, rich ricotta, and vibrant tomato sauce. This recipe is easily divided into portions and frozen for future meals. Serve with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying dinner.

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European Italian Dinner Party Dietary

Pasta Alla Norma Fresh Pasta With Eggplant Aubergine

Transport your taste buds to Sicily with this authentic Pasta alla Norma recipe! Inspired by the famed opera and Vincenzo Bellini's culinary preferences, this dish features fresh pasta tossed in a vibrant sauce of roasted eggplant, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy ricotta. A symphony of flavors and textures awaits – this is a truly unforgettable pasta experience.

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