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

Breads Pineapple Main Ingredient Fruit

A To Z Bread

This incredibly versatile and moist bread is a delicious way to use up leftover frozen berries! Packed with flavor and easy to customize, A to Z Berry Bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat. Make it your own by adding your favorite mix of frozen fruits, nuts, and spices.

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Low In Something Dietary Eggs Dairy Low In Something

Acadia's Eggplant Casserole

This Acadia-inspired eggplant casserole is a delicious and satisfying vegetarian main course. Tender eggplant baked to perfection with a blend of savory herbs and spices, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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Comfort Food Preparation Dietary Taste Mood

Acadia's Eggplant Parmesan

Say goodbye to heavy breading! This vibrant Acadia's Eggplant Parmesan recipe delivers the classic flavors you crave in a lighter, healthier way. Perfectly layered slices of eggplant are sauteed to perfection, then nestled in a square baking dish with rich marinara and melted mozzarella. This elegant side dish (or light main course!) is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a taste of summer, even on a chilly night!

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Inexpensive Canadian Beginner Cook Chili

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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Low In Something Dinner Party Time To Make Tomatoes

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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Middle Eastern Dietary Vegetarian Vegan

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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Low Calorie Vegetables Main Ingredient Dietary

Arabic Eggplant Aubergine Stew

A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian eggplant stew, perfect as a hearty main course or served over your favorite pasta! This easy oven-baked recipe, inspired by the sunsets of the Middle East (credited to Kathren McIntyre), boasts tender eggplant, savory garbanzos, and juicy tomatoes. Get ready for a taste of the exotic in just 75 minutes!

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Occasion Vegetables Low Protein Low Calorie

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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Dietary Number Of Servings Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less

Aubergine Eggplant And Broccoli Laksa

Spice up your life with this vibrant Aubergine (Eggplant) & Broccoli Laksa! This flavorful soup is packed with healthy veggies, boasts a delicious coconut curry broth, and is surprisingly easy to make in just 35 minutes. Clear your sinuses and warm your belly with this aromatic and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy weekend treat. #Laksa #Eggplant #Broccoli #CoconutCurry #HealthySoup #SpicyFood #EasyRecipe

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Main Dish Vegetables Oven Time To Make

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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Appetizers Course Preparation Occasion

Baba Ganouj Baba Ghanoush

Experience the smoky, creamy delight of authentic Baba Ghanoush! This recipe delivers a vibrant and flavorful eggplant dip, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a healthy and satisfying snack. Our easy-to-follow instructions guide you through roasting the eggplant to perfection, resulting in a luxuriously smooth and subtly smoky dip. Topped with fresh scallions and a drizzle of olive oil, this Baba Ghanoush is a taste of the Mediterranean that will leave you wanting more!

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Easy Low Cholesterol Dietary Low In Something

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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Healthy 2 Preparation Low Saturated Fat Dietary

Baba Ghanoush Rachael Ray

Experience the smoky, creamy delight of Rachael Ray's Baba Ghanoush! This easy recipe, adapted from Everyday with Rachael Ray magazine, delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 35 minutes. Perfectly roasted eggplant forms the base of this addictive dip, bursting with the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and fresh parsley. Serve with warm pita bread for the ultimate appetizer or side dish.

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Stews Winter Ramadan Main Ingredient

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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Equipment Indian Time To Make Stove Top

Baigan Bhartha Eggplant Aubergine

Experience the fiery delight of Baingan Bhartha, a classic Indian vegetarian eggplant curry! This recipe elevates the traditional dish with a few modern twists, resulting in a smoky, flavorful masterpiece. Perfectly charred eggplant is combined with aromatic spices and succulent tomatoes for a curry that's both comforting and exciting. Serve it over fluffy rice or with your favorite Indian bread for a truly unforgettable meal.

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Main Ingredient Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Comfort Food

Baked Creole Eggplant Aubergine

Transport your taste buds back to the golden age of Delmonico's Restaurant with this authentic Creole Eggplant Aubergine recipe! Before Emeril Lagasse, this classic dish delighted discerning palates, and now you can recreate it at home. Tender eggplant, succulent shrimp, and a medley of savory Creole flavors combine in a baked masterpiece. This recipe is simple yet elegant, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Vegetarian Vegetables

Baked Eggplant Aubergine Ala Ce Ce With Tomato Mushroom Gravy

Experience a flavor explosion with this irresistible Baked Eggplant Aubergine! Inspired by Ce Ce's legendary breading recipe (originally for green tomatoes!), this dish features tender eggplant slices, perfectly crisped to golden perfection, and smothered in a rich, homemade tomato-mushroom gravy. A delightful vegetarian main course or side dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Prepare to be amazed!

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Easy Eggs Occasion Low Calorie

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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