What Does Eggplant Taste Like?

what does eggplant taste like

What is an Eggplant?

Eggplant, known as aubergine in many parts of the world, is a vibrant, deep-purple vegetable that’s as versatile as it is nutritious. While often associated with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, it’s often found in cuisine from Asia to the Americas and Europe. This vegetable has numerous different varieties, including the common globe eggplant, the slender Japanese eggplant, and the uniquely patterned graffiti eggplant.

What Does Eggplant Taste Like?

An eggplant’s flavor can be a complex experience. While raw eggplant has a slightly bitter flavor and a spongy texture, cooking eggplant transforms its taste and consistency, making it more tender and succulent.

The bitterness often comes from the seeds inside, which are more abundant in the larger, globe variety. Some even describe the cooked flesh of the eggplant as having a somewhat meaty flavor, making it a favorite ingredient in vegetarian and vegan dishes.

The peel of the eggplant, often a deep, glossy purple, has a slightly more intense flavor than the flesh. Its texture, however, is a subject of debate. Some prefer the extra bite it adds to a dish, while others find it too tough and remove it before cooking.

About the Nightshade Family

Eggplants belong to the Solanaceae, or Nightshade family, a vast plant family that includes many other popular vegetables like tomatoes and potatoes, and even some fruits like the cape gooseberry. Though some members of this family are toxic, the ones we commonly consume are safe and nutritious.

Types of Eggplants

Eggplants come in an array of shapes, sizes, and colors. Each variety has its unique taste and texture, giving you endless possibilities in the kitchen. Let’s take a look at some of the different varieties of eggplant and what they taste like:

Globe Eggplant

This is the most common variety found in supermarkets across the globe. Its large size and sturdy flesh make it perfect for dishes where the eggplant needs to hold its shape, like in stuffed or grilled recipes. The flavor is mildly sweet with a hint of bitterness, especially in the seeds.

globe eggplant

Graffiti Eggplant

As the name suggests, this variety is striking, with its beautiful purple and white streaked skin. It’s similar in size and shape to the globe eggplant, but its flavor is slightly sweeter and less bitter.

Japanese Eggplant

This variety is long, thin, and typically has a deep purple color. Its skin is thinner than the globe eggplant, and the flesh is exceptionally tender, even when cooked. The taste is sweet and delicate, with almost no bitterness, making it a favorite for stir-fries and sautés.

Thai Eggplant

These eggplants are small, round, and often green or white. They’re crunchy and slightly bitter, often used in curries and other Southeast Asian dishes where they can soak up the surrounding flavors while retaining their shape.

Chinese Eggplant

Similar to the Japanese variety in shape but slightly lighter in color, the Chinese eggplant has a sweet flavor with no bitterness. It’s also less spongy than its counterparts, meaning it absorbs less oil when cooked, making it a healthier option for dishes like eggplant parmesan.

pile of chinese eggplant

Indian Eggplant

These tiny, round eggplants are often used in Indian cooking, particularly in sambar and bhartha. They have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor and are great for stuffing and roasting.

White Eggplant

The white eggplant has a tougher skin and a creamier flesh than its purple counterpart. It has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor, and while it can be used in the same recipes as other eggplants, it shines in dishes where its unique color can stand out, like in a vibrant vegetable medley.

Fairy Tale Eggplant

These small, teardrop-shaped eggplants are sweet and tender, with a thin, edible skin. They’re perfect for quick-cooking dishes like stir-fries, or simply grilling and serving as a side dish.

what does eggplant taste like
Print Recipe
No ratings yet

Types of Eggplant

What does eggplant taste like, you're asking yourself? From its flavor profile to the best ways to cook it and recipes, we've got you!
Prep Time5 mins
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: eggplant recipes, types of eggplants, what does eggplant taste like
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 5kcal

Ingredients

Globe Eggplant

  • This is the most common variety found in supermarkets across the globe.

Graffiti Eggplant

  • As the name suggests, this variety is striking, with its beautiful purple and white streaked skin.

Japanese Eggplant

  • This variety is long, thin, and typically has a deep purple color. 

Chinese Eggplant

  • Similar to the Japanese variety in shape but slightly lighter in color, the Chinese eggplant has a sweet flavor with no bitterness.

Thai Eggplant

  • These eggplants are small, round, and often green or white. 

Indian Eggplant

  • These tiny, round eggplants are often used in Indian cooking, particularly in sambar and bhartha.

White Eggplant

  • The white eggplant has a tougher skin and a creamier flesh than its purple counterpart. 

Fairy Tale Eggplant

  • These small, teardrop-shaped eggplants are sweet and tender, with a thin, edible skin.

Instructions

  • Explore types of eggplant.
  • Choose your recipe.
  • Gather ingredients.
  • Cook and expand your tastebuds!

Nutrition

Calories: 5kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.04g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.003g | Sodium: 0.4mg | Potassium: 47mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 5IU | Vitamin C: 0.5mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.05mg

Eggplant Nutrition

Despite its humble appearance, the eggplant is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s low in calories, making it a healthy addition to any diet.

The eggplant is an excellent source of dietary fiber, helping to promote a healthy digestive system. It also contains several vitamins, such as vitamin C and vitamin K, along with niacin, which is essential for brain function and skin health.

Moreover, eggplants are rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium, manganese, calcium, copper, and phosphorus. These minerals are essential for various bodily functions, including supporting healthy bones and heart function.

Health Benefits of Eggplant

Eggplant is not just a versatile ingredient in the kitchen; it’s also a vegetable packed with a multitude of health benefits. Here’s a look at why including eggplant in your diet is a smart choice:

Rich in Nutrients

Eggplants are full of essential nutrients that your body needs for optimal functioning. They’re a good source of vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin K, and niacin, and they also provide several minerals, including potassium, magnesium, manganese, calcium, copper, and phosphorus.

High in Antioxidants

Eggplants are packed with antioxidants, compounds that help protect the body’s cells from damage by free radicals. One of the primary antioxidants in eggplant is called nasunin, which is found in the skin of the vegetable and has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer.

Good for Heart Health

The fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B-6 content in eggplants all support heart health. Studies have shown that eating foods rich in these nutrients can help lower the risk of heart disease.

Aids in Digestion

Eggplants are high in dietary fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber can help prevent constipation, reduce the risk of colon cancer, and manage weight.

Bone Health

The calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium in eggplants contribute to strong, healthy bones. They also contain vitamin K, which aids in calcium absorption and reduces the risk of bone fractures.

eggplant and peppers in a casserole

Supports Brain Health

Eggplants contain phytonutrients that improve blood circulation and nourish the brain. They’re also rich in antioxidants that protect the brain cell membranes from damage.

Helps in Weight Management

Eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent food for weight management. The fiber helps you feel full for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating.

May Improve Blood Sugar Control

The high fiber content in eggplants can help control blood sugar levels. Fiber slows the rate of digestion and absorption of sugar in the body, preventing spikes in blood sugar.

Skin Health 

The vitamins and antioxidants in eggplant may contribute to skin health. The water content also helps to keep your skin hydrated.

stuffed eggplant

How to Store Eggplants

Eggplants are relatively delicate and can spoil if not stored correctly. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They can be kept in the refrigerator, but avoid the cooler sections to prevent damage from excess cold. A tip to retain their freshness is to wrap them in a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.

Best Ways to Cook Eggplant

Eggplants are incredibly versatile in cooking.

They can be sliced and fried for a crispy exterior and a tender interior. They also absorb flavors exceptionally well, making them ideal for dishes with robust sauces and seasonings.

Baking is another popular method of cooking eggplant. Simply cut the eggplant into slices, sprinkle with salt to draw out any bitterness and excess moisture, and bake until tender.

Eggplants are also delicious when grilled, roasted, or stewed. They are a mainstay in soups and stews across the globe, from the classic French ratatouille to the hearty Middle Eastern moussaka.

Eggplant Recipes

Given its versatility, it’s no surprise that eggplant is a key ingredient in countless recipes. Here are a couple of our favorites:

Baba Ganoush

This Middle Eastern dip involves roasting eggplants until their insides are soft. The flesh is then blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and other seasonings to create a creamy, flavorful spread that pairs perfectly with warm pita bread.

Eggplant Parmesan

This classic Italian dish features slices of eggplant, breaded and fried until golden, then layered with tomato sauce and cheese and baked until bubbly.

Ratatouille

This French dish showcases eggplant alongside other summer vegetables like zucchini and tomatoes. Everything is slowly cooked together until tender, creating a comforting stew that’s bursting with flavor.

Szechuan Eggplant Stir-Fry

This spicy, savory dish highlights the eggplant’s ability to soak up flavors. The eggplant is stir-fried with a bold sauce featuring soy, vinegar, and a generous helping of garlic and chili.

Eggplant FAQs

Is eggplant an acquired taste?

For some, the slightly bitter flavor of eggplant may be an acquired taste. However, the cooking method can significantly impact its taste, and many find that they enjoy eggplant when it’s prepared in a way that suits their palate.

Can eggplant taste like meat?

Eggplant has a unique flavor, but when cooked, it can take on a hearty, almost meaty texture. It’s often used as a meat substitute in many vegetarian and vegan dishes.

What is the most popular way to eat eggplant?

There isn’t one “most popular” way to eat eggplant since it’s used in so many cuisines around the world. It can be grilled, baked, fried, or stewed, and is often featured in soups, stews, and casseroles.

Do eggplants taste like eggs?

Despite the name, eggplants do not taste like eggs. The name “eggplant” comes from a variety of vegetable that is white and egg-shaped.

Is eggplant better with skin on or off?

The skin of the eggplant is entirely edible, and whether you leave it on or off depends on personal preference and the specific recipe you’re following. Some enjoy the slightly tougher texture and richer flavor of the skin, while others prefer the softer, milder flesh.

Eggplants, with their unique flavor and versatility, have made a mark in kitchens worldwide. Whether it’s in a comforting stew, a hearty bake, or a simple fry, this vegetable is sure to bring something special to the table. Next time you see an eggplant, whether it’s a common globe variety or a striking graffiti eggplant, don’t hesitate to give it a try!

More Food Exploration

What Does Guava Taste Like?

11 Miso Paste Substitutes

What Does Dragon Fruit Taste Like?

All About Red Foods

All About Blue Foods

Have questions or suggestions about what eggplant tastes like? Leave them in the comments below.

what does eggplant taste like - pinterest pin

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating