Eggplant

Solanum melongena Vegetable, Fruit (botanically)

Eggplant Vegetable, Fruit (botanically)

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable, Fruit (botanically)

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

A versatile nightshade vegetable with a spongy, absorbent flesh, known for its mild flavor and meaty texture when cooked.

Absorption Property High (oil sponge)
Global Varieties Many (e.g., Globe, Japanese, Graffiti)
Water Content ~92%

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Eggplant are:

Earthy slightly bitter meaty absorbent

Chef’s Secret

Salt sliced eggplant for 30 minutes before cooking, then rinse and pat dry. This draws out excess moisture and bitterness, leading to a creamier texture and less oil absorption.

Best Substitutes

Zucchini

similar texture, different flavor

Large Portobello Mushrooms

for meaty texture

Buying Guide

Choose firm, glossy eggplants that feel heavy for their size. Avoid soft spots or blemishes.

Recipes Using Eggplant

Equipment Casseroles Low Fat 4 Hours Or Less

Beef And Eggplant Bake With Polenta Crust

This hearty Beef and Eggplant Bake, topped with a creamy polenta crust and baked to golden perfection, is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. The rich beef ragu, layered with tender eggplant and fragrant herbs, is perfectly complemented by the cheesy polenta topping. Serve with a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. #beefrecipe #eggplantrecipe #polenta #comfortfood #winterrecipe #bakedrecipe #easyrecipe

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Easy Eggs Dairy Cuisine Savory

Aphrodite's Faster Than Takeout Pizza

Craving pizza but want something healthy and fast? This Mediterranean veggie pizza is a game-changer! Meat-lovers will adore the rich flavors from the marinated eggplant, peppers, and onions, combined with creamy feta and parmesan. Prep the veggies ahead, and dinner is on the table in just 15 minutes! Get ready for a flavor explosion worthy of the Greek gods!

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Presentation Eggs Dairy Low Calorie Dietary

Baked Stuffed Baby Eggplant Aubergine

Brighten your dinner table with these irresistible Baked Stuffed Baby Eggplant Aubergines! Perfectly tender eggplants are filled with a savory rice and tomato mixture, then baked to golden perfection. Serve alongside broiled chicken and roasted potatoes for a complete and unforgettable meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Main Dish Vegetables Equipment 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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Low Carb Low Saturated Fat Low Calorie Main Ingredient

Ajvar Eggplant Aubergine Peppers

Experience the vibrant flavors of Croatia with this authentic Ajvar recipe! This roasted eggplant and pepper appetizer is a delicious and easy-to-make spread, perfect as a dip with crusty bread or a topping for grilled meats. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with Mediterranean sunshine, this Ajvar is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to impress your guests with this stunning and flavorful Croatian classic.

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Low Protein Low Sodium Course Main Ingredient

Antipasto Di Melanzane Eggplant Appetizer

This vibrant Antipasto Di Melanzane recipe is a delightful explosion of flavor! Perfectly roasted eggplant is tossed in a rich tomato sauce, creating a warm and comforting (or refreshing cold!) appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. Serve with toasted crostini for the ultimate bite! A simple, yet elegant dish that's sure to impress.

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Cuisine Sandwiches Comfort Food Lunch

Baked Eggplant Melt Sandwich

Melty cheese, tender eggplant, and fragrant basil combine in this irresistible Baked Eggplant Melt Sandwich! Inspired by Sobey's, this recipe is a flavor explosion in every bite. Quick, easy, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a fun weekend lunch.

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Vegetables Main Dish Equipment Preparation

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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Dietary Low Fat Appetizers Served Cold

Baba Gha Hummus

This irresistible fusion recipe from Cooking Light magazine combines the smoky richness of baba ganoush with the creamy texture of hummus. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, Baba Gha Hummus is the perfect dip for toasted pita and crudites, a fantastic sandwich spread, or a unique addition to any meal. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) for an extra touch of elegance before serving!

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Time To Make Course Valentines Day Savory

Baba Ganoush The Best In The World

Experience pure culinary bliss with this incredible Baba Ganoush recipe, adapted from Joanne Weir's Williams-Sonoma's Small Plates (1998). This isn't your average dip; it's a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. Perfectly smoky eggplant, creamy tahini, zesty lemon, and fragrant garlic create a harmonious blend you won't soon forget. Impress your friends and family with this restaurant-quality recipe – easily made at home!

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Oven Lunch Main Ingredient Peppers

Absolutely Fabulous Roasted Vegetetables

Elevate your dinner party or weeknight meal with these incredibly flavorful roasted vegetables! Perfect as a vibrant appetizer with cheese and wine, a stunning vegetarian sandwich filling, a delicious pasta topper, or simply enjoyed on their own. These roasted veggies boast a beautiful char and irresistible taste – guaranteed to impress!

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Equipment Time To Make Lunch Cuisine

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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Main Ingredient Main Dish Time To Make Oven

Baked Eggplant Chili Casserole

Comfort food at its finest! This hearty vegetarian Baked Eggplant Chili Casserole is packed with flavor and satisfying texture. Enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make vegan chili, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish. Loaded with eggplant, beans, and spices, it's a flavorful explosion in every bite!

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Main Ingredient European Weeknight Occasion

Eggplant Parmesan Chips

Craving the rich flavor of eggplant parmesan but short on time? These addictive Eggplant Parmesan Chips deliver all the crispy, cheesy goodness in a fun, bite-sized snack! Quickly pan-fried to golden perfection, these salty and crunchy chips are irresistible. Perfect as an appetizer, game-day snack, or a light meal. They're also delicious baked – try both methods and find your favorite! Adapted from Life's Ambrosia.

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Time To Make Preparation Main Ingredient Side Dishes

Baked Eggplant Casserole

This isn't your grandma's eggplant casserole! Inspired by a cooks.com recipe, this quiche-like masterpiece features tender eggplant, vibrant peppers, and a savory cheese blend. We've boosted the flavor with a custom pizza seasoning blend (think oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, marjoram & garlic!), creating a depth of taste that's simply irresistible. Perfect for a crowd, this large casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Low In Something Time To Make High In Something Ontario

Apricot Mustard Chicken On The Grill

Fire up the grill for this irresistible Apricot Mustard Grilled Chicken recipe! Sweet apricot jam, tangy Dijon mustard, and a hint of cider vinegar create a luscious glaze that perfectly complements juicy, grilled chicken. Inspired by the Ontario Liquor Board, this recipe is elevated by heating the glaze for a more pronounced flavor. Reserve extra for dipping – it's that good! Serve with grilled yams and eggplant for a complete and satisfying summer meal.

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Low Saturated Fat Low Protein Easy Time To Make

African Sweet Potato And Peanut Soup

A vibrant and flavorful West African-inspired soup, adapted from the Moosewood Cookbook. This hearty recipe combines sweet potatoes, peanuts, and warming spices for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a flavorful weeknight dinner. Easily customizable with your favorite fruit or vegetable juices! (Wine, apricot, or tomato juice are great substitutes.)

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Copycat Easy 60 Minutes Or Less Course

Almost Like Pollo Pronto's Roasted Veggie Wrap

Craving Pollo Pronto's roasted veggie wrap but want a healthier, lower-calorie version? This recipe delivers! I've recreated the delicious flavors you love, minus the excess fat and calories. Get ready for a vibrant, flavorful wrap packed with roasted veggies and satisfying protein. It's surprisingly easy to make and tastes incredibly close to the restaurant original. Give it a try and impress yourself!

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