Vegetable | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Carb

Globe Eggplant

Solanum melongena Allergen-Free
Globe Eggplant

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, South Asian
  • Seasonality Summer, Early Fall
  • Source Eggplant plant

The Forktionary Angle

""

Definition

A large, deep purple, pear-shaped eggplant variety with a mild, slightly bitter flavor and spongy texture, widely used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Slightly bitter (less so in modern varieties), Earthy
TextureSpongy, Meaty, Soft (when cooked)
AromaFaint, Earthy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 cup chopped (approx 80g)
Calories25kcal
Total Fat0.2g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein1g
Total Carbohydrate6g
Dietary Fiber3g
Total Sugars3.5g
Calcium9mg
Iron0.2mg
Potassium229mg

Chef’s Secret

To reduce excess water and potential bitterness, slice eggplant, salt it generously, let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry before cooking. This also helps reduce oil absorption.

Substitutions

Best Match

Italian Eggplant

1:1

Similar size and flavor, often slightly less bitter and denser than traditional globe varieties.

Chinese Eggplant

1:1

Thinner skin, fewer seeds, cooks faster. Good for stir-fries and lighter dishes.

Zucchini

1:1

Different flavor, but similar water content and texture when cooked, especially in stews or baked dishes.

Portobello Mushrooms

1:1

Provides a meaty, earthy texture, good for grilling or roasting as an eggplant alternative.

Buying Guide

Select firm, heavy eggplants with glossy, unblemished skin. Avoid soft spots or wrinkling, which indicate age.

Flavor Pairings

Tomatoes garlic olive oil basil feta lamb chickpeas sumac tahini.