Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a member of the nightshade family and shares its botanical lineage with tomatoes and potatoes. This strikingly diverse fruit, often mischaracterized as a vegetable, boasts a storied history.
In the 1600s, eggplants were intriguingly known as ‘mala insane‘ or ‘mad apples,’ suggesting that consuming them might lead to insanity. While such fears have long been debunked, the culinary allure of eggplants persisted through the ages. It was none other than the visionary Thomas Jefferson who is credited with introducing eggplants to the United States.
Eggplants are predominantly water, comprising about 95% of their composition. What’s more, they bear the distinction of being the fruit with the highest nicotine content, although the levels are minuscule. To put it in perspective, one would need to consume a whopping 45 pounds of eggplant to equal the nicotine content of a single cigarette. So, rest assured, enjoying eggplant dishes won’t lead to any addictive tendencies!
When it comes to preparing eggplants, there’s a culinary tip worth noting: avoid using carbon-steel knives for slicing. This is because the white flesh of the eggplant, rich in phytonutrients, can turn black when exposed to these knives. It’s advisable to opt for stainless steel or ceramic knives to preserve the eggplant’s pristine appearance and taste.
Eggplants come in an almost countless array of sizes, shapes, and colors. While the vibrant purple Italian variety is most commonly found in farmers’ markets, there are several Asian varieties grown by KT Farm, including Thai, Chinese, and Japanese eggplant at our farmers’ markets. Thai eggplants, resembling golf balls, come in shades of white with hints of green or purple stripes. These petite orbs are staples in Southeast Asian cuisine, contributing their unique flavor and texture to various dishes. On the other hand, Chinese and Japanese eggplants have an elongated form. Renowned for their sweetness and soft edible skin, these eggplants have earned a special place in Asian culinary traditions for their distinct taste and versatility.
Italian eggplants typically feature a rich, dark purple hue and are prized for their balanced flavor and meaty texture. They are often used in Mediterranean dishes like eggplant Parmesan, baba ganoush, and caponata, contributing their unique taste to these beloved recipes.
Whether you savor them in a classic Italian dish or embrace their global diversity in your cooking, eggplants are a versatile ingredient that continues to intrigue food enthusiasts.
To learn more about all of the varieties of eggplants, see A Guide to Different Eggplant Varieties.
RECIPES: Click here for eggplant recipes!
