If you are a fan of Dr. Nandi, you know how much he likes eggplant and its health benefits. Eggplants are high in many vitamins and minerals. Theyβre a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, thiamine, niacin, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, copper, fiber, folic acid, potassium, etc. Plus, eggplants are high in fiber, so they are great for digestion and are heart-healthy. Recent research suggests that the antioxidants found inΒ eggplantΒ may reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Did you know that the 5 main eggplants are much more varied than most think? They are different sizes, some are striped and donβt forget about the different colors!
ItalianΒ β Big and bold, this is the most easily recognizable and available of the eggplants. They are versatile and can be used in many different dishes with ease.
IndianΒ β Itβs a small and oval eggplant, and the texture is somewhat creamy. It is an excellent eggplant to use in curries, but they also hold up quite well to grilling and roasting because of its firmness.
GraffitiΒ β These eggplants have lovely markings and multi-colors. Graffiti eggplants are great when sliced and then fried or roasted for a vegetarian dish. These eggplants add a bit of βcolorβ to the meal.
ChineseΒ β Chinese eggplants have thin skin, are more extended, and tend to be skinny. These eggplants do very well in a more saucy style main dish or as a side dish. They do exceptionally well with garlic.
BabyΒ β These eggplants are the βfancyβ variety. Baby eggplants range in color from white to bluish-purple, and even some have beautiful stripes. Baby eggplants are sweeter, and their texture makes them a perfect filling for sandwiches. Baby eggplants also do exceptionally well with being fried.
