Aubergine/Eggplant
Aubergine/Eggplant is a versatile fruit. What? Fruit? Yes, eggplant or aubergine is actually botanically a fruit, technically a berry because it contains the fruit of the plant (just like strawberries, etc.). From a culinary perspective, it is a vegetable because it is used in main dishes and savory dishes. It is best not consumed raw; you can saute, bake, stir fry, boil, braise, grill, steam, pickle, puree, char or stuff them. Aubergine/eggplant will add texture and bulk to any dish. They originated from India/Burma and were carried to China and Arabia; making their way to Spain and the rest of Europe
Just as it comes in many shapes, sizes, and colors, it is called by many different names. The most common names are eggplant (US, Australia), aubergine (Europe, Asia), brinjal (India), and bademjan (Middle East).
How do I buy and store it?
Look for bright glossy skin. Choose ones that are heavy for their size. When you press your thumb it should give a little and rebound back. Smaller eggplants tend to be sweeter. Look for smooth shiny skin and make sure there are no moldy spots on the skin or stem. The stem should be green.
Pick the male eggplants. Ok, there is no scientific proof for this idea. However, I have had plenty of aunties around the world tell me this, and in my own experience, I have found that male eggplants are sweeter and have few seeds inside. How do you tell the difference between males and females? The male eggplants have a small round indentation or mark at the bottom. Female eggplants have a large more oblong indentation or mark at the bottom. Do not store in the refrigerator. Store on the counter away from direct sunlight. Purchase your eggplant near the time you want to use it. Do not store near ethylene-producing foods such as bananas, tomatoes, avocados, or melons.
Do not keep it in plastic or wrapped. Eggplant can be prepared and frozen. Slice and bake or blanch prior to freezing. Or, prepare your aubergine dish and freeze.
How do I prepare it?
To peel or not? My personal preference is to peel larger eggplants and not peel smaller-sized eggplant. It does boil down to a personal preference. There are a lot of nutrients in the skin.
Whether or not you plan to peel your aubergine, larger varieties should be salted. This helps to remove any potential bitterness and it helps the eggplant to soak up less oil. To do this slice or dice your aubergine for your recipe. Place in a colander and salt generously. Let sit for at least 15 minutes. You will see the eggplant start to weep (get a little watery). Wash the salt off and you are now ready to use in your recipe.
Why is it good for me?
One cup or 225 grams of eggplant has about 35 calories. Nutritionally aubergines provide fiber, copper, magnesium, vitamin B1, B6, and K. Aubergines are high in antioxidants and contain special phytonutrients important for your health.
Aubergine can help fight against cancer, improve digestion and help to lower cholesterol. When you think about eating a rainbow of colors in your meals, eggplant is a good choice. While it is not particularly strong in any one nutrient, there is an impressive array of vitamins, minerals, macronutrients, and micronutrients. It also has a low glycemic index.
What can you pair with aubergine?
There are many different ways eggplant can be used. Here are some of my favorites from around the globe and ideas of what to add to create your own masterpiece!
Asian flavors
One of my favorite dishes is green curry. Be creative and pair eggplant with miso, bell peppers/capsicum, sesame, basil, chili pepper, tofu, mushrooms, ginger, garlic to create your own dish!
Italian flavors
Caponata is one of my go-to dishes. Pair tomatoes, garlic, onion, kidney beans, cannellini beans, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes to bring Sicily into your kitchen!
Mediterranean flavors
Baba ganoush, stuffed eggplant, and moussaka are super versatile dishes that will be a hit on your table. Or pair with tahini, garlic, tomatoes, capers, chickpeas/garbanzo beans, walnuts, or capers.
Middle Eastern Flavors
One of my favorite middle eastern dishes is a Persian dish called khoresh bademjan (eggplant stew). Pair ingredients like tomatoes, cinnamon, sour limes, roasted red pepper to create an authentic Middle Eastern taste.
Indian Flavors
There are many Indian dishes that use eggplant. Add ingredients like tomatoes, curry powder, garlic, onions, turmeric, cumin, cauliflower to create your own dish.
Stews
Aubergine/eggplant is a great ingredient to use in stews. It acts as a sponge and soaks up other flavors. This is perfect for make-ahead dishes as day two will provide an even more flavorful dish. Stews also freeze well and they are perfect for large groups, potlucks, and introducing plant-based food to friends and family.
Grilled or roasted eggplant is another great way to prepare this fruit and then add it to other dishes.
And let’s not forget one of my favorites courtesy of Remi…. Ratatouille. Because after all, anyone can cook!
Growing up the only way I ever ate eggplant was in eggplant parmesan - breaded, fried, and covered in cheese. There wasn’t any way to determine if I liked eggplant with all that stuff going on. Not only does eating it this way mask the taste of eggplant, but it is definitely not a healthy choice. Try some different varieties of eggplant and some other ways of preparing. You will find it a delicious, melt in your mouth taste and texture when prepared correctly. Give it a go and step outside that comfort zone! Yes, you can!
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