Is an eggplant a fruit or a vegetable? You're wrong if you said, "vegetable" (like most people would). Not only is an eggplant considered a fruit, but it's actually classified as a berry. That's the first of many things you probably don't know about eggplants.
To start with, the American eggplant you're probably picturing is just the beginning of the eggplant spectrum. If you love eggplants, it might be time to explore the various types available to you, specifically Chinese eggplants versus Japanese eggplants. Consider this your primer on eggplants as you learn the differences between these two varieties.
Eggplants 101
Eggplants are one of the most delicious and versatile ingredients you can cook with. They can be fried, baked, pickled, stewed, pureed, and even stuffed. And just like tomatoes (also a fruit!), eggplants are part of the nightshade family. While you may be a big fan of popular dishes like eggplant parmesan and rollatini, there are so many varieties of eggplant grown around the world, and they all look and taste different.
Another interesting thing about eggplant is its flavor and texture. Most raw eggplants taste bitter because of the seeds, but when cooked, eggplant becomes soft and savory and soak up sauces and oils. That's why they taste so good in dishes like roasted eggplant and olive pasta salad, Moussaka, and Ratatouille.
Japanese Eggplants
What They Look Like
Japanese eggplants are short and thin with delicate dark purple skin and dark-colored stems.
When/Where They're Grown
Japanese eggplants are available all year round, but their peak season is summer through fall. In addition to Asia, Japanese eggplants are grown in Europe, South America, and the U.S.
How to Cook Them
Japanese eggplants have a thin skin and sponge-like texture, which quickly absorbs sauces and flavors. They also have a slightly sweeter taste which pairs well with miso, soy sauce, and ginger. Try them in this miso eggplant dip, or roast them with miso and sesame seeds for a tasty side dish.
Nutritional Value
Japanese eggplants are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and dietary fiber.
Chinese Eggplants
What They Look Like
Chinese eggplants are long, thin, and sometimes crooked. They each have different color skin, ranging from violet to bright purple.
When/Where They're Grown
Chinese eggplants are available year-round. In addition to Asia, Chinese eggplants are grown in Europe, Canada, and the U.S.
How to Cook Them
Unlike most other kinds, Chinese eggplants are nearly seedless, which makes them slightly sweet and less bitter. They're most commonly baked or featured in a stir-fry because they're tender and cook quickly. Cook them up in this vegetarian eggplant and tofu stir-fry, or try this savory dish of curried eggplant with tomatoes and basil.
Nutritional Value
Chinese eggplants contain manganese, potassium, and vitamin B6. They also have anthocyanins which give the eggplant a deep purple color and are known for antioxidant properties.
