If you’re like me, eggplant is a veggie that was discovered in the later years of life (okay…so in my twenties). Childhood dinners featured the regular stars: lettuces, tomatoes, spinach, carrots, green beans, peas…essentially the basic American veggies. It wasn’t until I visited Tel Aviv at the ripe age of 21 that I discovered eggplant. And…HELLO. Can I say, superstar?
Eggplant has quickly risen the veggie ranks and claimed a well-deserved regal status amongst my favorite veggies. It’s a little under-appreciated, so we’ve decided to shine a spotlight on it. Here’s the lowdown on all things eggplant.
THE LOOK
Gardenuity grows the Galine variety. In other words, it’s the eggplant you know: glossy purple skin and the classic teardrop shape — quite a beautiful combo. In fact, eggplant was first grown as an ornamental plant in North America (which is why so many people are unfamiliar with its flavor!)
THE FLAVOR
Eggplant has a rich, meaty flavor with slightly bitter undertones. Grilled or sautéed, the veggie has a firm texture and mild taste. Eggplant tends to absorb whatever flavors surround it, so pick your poison and season away. It’s especially famous for Mediterranean food, so if you’re stuck, check out those recipes first.
THE NUTRIENTS
Eggplants contain impressive amounts of fiber, folate, potassium, phosphorous, copper, thiamin, niacin, magnesium, pantothenic acid, manganese, and vitamins C, K, and B6. In other words, this veg’ isn’t lacking in nutrients.
In less scientific terms, eggplants are good for your throat and stomach. Plus, they help reduce symptoms of asthma, skin diseases, rheumatism, inflammation, foot pain, and coughs.
THE FUN STUFF
In the Mediterranean region, people nicknamed eggplants “mad apples” because they thought that eating this fruit every day for a week would literally drive you insane. And…yes, if you were paying attention, I said fruit. Eggplants are actually berries, not vegetables, and they’re related to tomatoes!
Now that you have the lowdown on eggplant, you can see why we think they deserve our love, right? Get organic eggplant growing now! It’s the perfect time to grow fresh, flavorful, and beautiful eggplant produce.