Eggplant

VegetablesFruit vegetables

Eggplant

The eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a versatile vegetable enjoyed worldwide. With a mild flavor and spongy texture, eggplants are used in various culinary applications. They are low in calories and offer a good source of fiber and nutrients.

Did you know ?

• 1 Eggplants are botanically classified as berries.
• 2 Eggplants were once called 'mad apples' because people believed they could cause insanity.
• 3 Different eggplant varieties come in various shapes and colors, including purple, white, green, and striped.

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Nutrition

Detailed nutritional values of eggplants

Values of one medium eggplant (~82g) - raw :

Calories	20 kcal
Proteins	0.7g
Carbohydrates	4.8g
of which sugars	2.9g
Fiber	2.5g
Fats	0.1g

Vitamins and minerals

Main vitamins

Vitamin B9Vitamin KVitamin C

Main minerals and trace elements

PotassiumMagnesiumManganesePhosphorusCopper

Nutritional values may vary depending on variety, ripeness, and growing conditions.

Ripeness

How to know if an eggplant is ripe ?

Unripe

Perfectly ripe

Overripe

Perfectly ripe

Firm, heavy, and vibrant with a slightly sweet flavor.

How to recognize this state :

• Firm but slightly yielding to pressure
• Deep, even color
• Smooth, glossy skin
• Slightly sweet aroma
• Heavy for its size
• Skin gives slightly when pressed
• Flesh bounces back quickly
• Stem is green and firm

Advice for ripe products

Use ripe eggplants within a few days for the best flavor and texture. Store them in the refrigerator.

Selection

How to choose eggplants ?

To choose quality eggplants at the supermarket or market :

• Look for eggplants with smooth, glossy skin and a deep, even color.
• Choose eggplants that feel heavy for their size.
• Avoid eggplants with bruises, cuts, or wrinkles.
• Press gently on the skin - it should yield slightly but not be too soft.
• Check that the stem is green and firm.

Storage and ripening

How to store and ripen eggplants ?

How to store eggplants ?

• Store unwashed eggplants in the refrigerator's crisper drawer.
• Wrap eggplants loosely in plastic wrap to help retain moisture.
• Use within one week for best quality.
• Avoid storing eggplants near ethylene-producing fruits and vegetables like apples and bananas.

How to ripen eggplants ?

Eggplants don't typically 'ripen' off the vine, but here's how to handle them :

• Eggplants are best when harvested at peak ripeness.
• If you have a slightly underripe eggplant, you can store it at room temperature for a day or two to see if it softens slightly.

Health

Health benefits of an eggplant

• Low in calories, making it a healthy addition to meals.
• Good source of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety.
• Contains antioxidants like anthocyanins, which may protect against cell damage.
• Provides potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
• Contains vitamin B6, which supports brain health.

Origin

What is the origin of eggplants ?

Eggplants are native to India and have been cultivated for thousands of years. They spread to other parts of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe over time. Spanish explorers introduced eggplants to the Americas in the 15th century. Today, they are grown and enjoyed worldwide.

Regions of origin

• India (origin)
• Asia (early cultivation)
• Middle East
• Europe
• The Americas

Recipes

Cook an eggplant according to its ripeness

Unripe

• Eggplant pickle
• Green eggplant curry
• Stir-fried eggplant with spicy sauce (using minimal unripe eggplant)

Perfectly ripe

• Baba ghanoush (eggplant dip)
• Moussaka
• Ratatouille

Overripe

• Eggplant soup (if not too bitter)
• Eggplant and tomato stew (if not too mushy)

F.A.Q

Frequently asked questions

Is eggplant a fruit or vegetable ?

Can you eat eggplant skin ?

How do you get rid of the bitterness in eggplants ?

Are eggplants good for weight loss ?

How long do eggplants last in the refrigerator ?

Can eggplants be frozen ?

What are some popular eggplant dishes ?

Are eggplants safe for dogs to eat ?

Is eggplant a nightshade vegetable ?

Can eggplants cause inflammation ?

Is eggplant easy to grow at home ?

Is eggplant ok for IBS ?

Warnings

Warnings and precautions for eggplants

• Some people may be allergic to eggplants.
• Eggplants contain solanine, which can be toxic in high amounts.
• Avoid consuming raw eggplants in large quantities.
• Eggplant leaves and flowers are toxic and should not be eaten.

Do not confuse with

Zucchini

Has a similar shape but is typically green and has a different texture and flavor.

Cucumber

Longer and thinner, with a crisp texture and different flavor profile.