Eggplant (Aubergine)

While the eggplant is generally known as a vegetable, botanically speaking, it is a fruit. Native to India, eggplant has been used as a food ingredient for over 2000 years. Making its way to Europe and Asia, the number of cooking methods associated with this fruit is certainly impressive. While purple eggplant tends to be the most common, white varieties as well as bright purple varieties, are also popular in the summertime. Eggplant can be quite susceptible to cold weather, so long warm summers produce the best crops. Thomas Jefferson was credited with introducing eggplant to the United States, and its popularity has been pronounced ever since.

Key Nutrients

The skin of eggplant provides an excellent source of vitamin B1 and vitamin B6. The entire vegetable is a great source of dietary fiber.

Health Benefits

Vitamin B1 – Thiamine is an important vitamin since it breaks down sugars in the body. Thiamine also helps to support nerve and heart health.

Vitamin B6 – Vitamin B6 helps to keep your immune system in good working order. It aids in the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and amino acids while helping to maintain the health of lymph nodes. Additionally, vitamin B6 helps to regulate blood glucose levels.

Dietary Fiber – Dietary Fiber stimulates digestion and peristalsis, helping to relieve indigestion and constipation problems.

Season

Eggplant matures in the late summer, and since it stores well, is generally available through the fall. Eggplant is grown commercially, making it available year round in most supermarkets.

Nutrition Information

Per 1 cup (80 grams):

Calories (cKal): 20
Protein (grams): .83
Total Fat (grams): .16
Carbohydrates (grams): 4.67
Fiber (grams): 2.8

Buying and Storing

When buying, make sure eggplant is hard to the touch and sounds hollow when knocked with your fingers. Soft eggplant is a sign of an aged fruit. Eggplant stores well on your countertop for up to one week.

Best Way to Add to Diet

Eggplant can be used in a number of ways. Dressed with a bit of olive oil and herbs, this fruit grills nicely. Since eggplant tends to dry out quickly, you might want to add a bit of balsamic vinegar after cooking to rehydrate. From here, add the grilled eggplant to your favorite salad. Eggplant parmesan is another delicious way to enjoy this fruit. Finally, try roasting an eggplant in an oven for one hour, then blending with a bit of tomato sauce and basil. This concoction is commonly called “Eggplant Caviar”.