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

Preparation Time To Make Vegetarian Main Ingredient

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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Low In Something Cuisine Vegetables Low Sodium

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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Vegetables Vegetarian Appetizers 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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Vegetarian Occasion Turkish Cuisine

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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Preparation Time To Make Healthy Healthy 2

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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Healthy 2 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Equipment

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 Cholesterol 4 Hours Or Less Appetizers Low Protein

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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Main Ingredient Time To Make 3 Steps Or Less Dietary

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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Citrus Main Dish Low Cholesterol Passover

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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Cuisine Southern United States Side Dishes Time To Make

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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Dietary Dietary Time To Make Side Dishes

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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Taste Mood Number Of Servings For 1 Or 2 Dinner Party

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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Pork Sausage Beginner Cook Main Ingredient Occasion

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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Low Protein Low In Something Occasion 1 Day Or More

Bbq Vegetables Aussie Style

Experience the taste of summer with this vibrant Aussie BBQ vegetable recipe! Perfect for those long sunny days, this dish is bursting with fresh, seasonal flavors. Marinated to perfection, these tender vegetables are grilled to smoky deliciousness. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing BBQ classic – it's so easy and incredibly flavourful, you'll be making it all summer long!

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Vegetables Peppers Tomatoes 60 Minutes Or Less

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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Casseroles Eggs Vegetables Low Sodium

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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