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

Casseroles Preparation Course Dietary

17 Day Diet Turkey Eggplant Parmesan

Craving classic Italian comfort food without the guilt? This 17-Day Diet Turkey Eggplant Parmesan recipe is a game-changer! Skip the heavy breading and enjoy a lighter, healthier version packed with flavor. This low-carb, low-fat masterpiece is surprisingly quick to make, perfect for a weeknight meal. Dr. Mike Moreno's recipe delivers the delicious taste of eggplant parmesan you love, without the extra calories. Get ready for a satisfying and guilt-free culinary experience!

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Winter Fall Presentation Low Sodium

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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Low In Something Dietary Main Ingredient European

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 Carb Appetizers Low Calorie Low In Something

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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Asian Vegan Rice Asian

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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4 Hours Or Less Spreads Cuisine Occasion

Angelina's Caponatina

This family recipe, passed down through generations, captures the essence of Sicilian sunshine. Angelina's Caponatina is a vibrant, flavorful eggplant relish perfect as an appetizer, pasta topping, omelet addition, or simply enjoyed with crackers. Imagine tender eggplant, sweet onions, briny olives, and a touch of sweetness and spice, all simmered to perfection. This versatile dish is easily made ahead, frozen for later, and is sure to become a family favorite! Learn how to make this classic Sicilian recipe and experience the culinary tradition that has spanned generations.

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Equipment Equipment Low Carb 30 Minutes Or Less

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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Low Calorie Vegetables Low Saturated Fat Course

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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Taste Mood One Dish Meal Occasion 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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Oven Healthy 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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Preparation Preparation Dietary 60 Minutes Or Less

Baba Ganoush

This smoky Baba Ganoush recipe is a summer grilling sensation! My mother's secret? Perfectly charred eggplants for that irresistible smoky flavor. Incredibly simple with only three ingredients and minimal prep, this dip is a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to enjoy the best Baba Ganoush you've ever tasted!

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Small Appliance Vegetables Preparation 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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Middle Eastern Condiments Etc Middle Eastern Time To Make

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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Potluck American Side Dishes Inexpensive

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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Served Cold Course Main Dish 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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Spring Main Ingredient Low Protein Low Calorie

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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Oven Course Fall 4 Hours Or Less

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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