Apple, pea, Japanese and globe … the whole eggplant family is here, representing nearly 30 cuisines, so there really is a lot of love when eggplant is involved. From Food Safari Earth's whole baba and vegetarian green curry to a sweet chocolate brownie, here's why the eggplant always stacks up.
1. They don't shy away from tradition...
All hail moussaka! This traditional version needs a little time and patience, but it's worth it as it makes a standout centrepiece. Basically, reserve it for close friends and loved ones.
2. ...but they also have a fun and freekeh side
Pomegranate, capsicum and freekeh team up with eggplant in this extremely delicious salad that is hearty, easy and packed with loads of herbs.
3. They're protective
Eggplants are dressed to impress and are great for stuffing. This is a Turkish take on stuffed eggplants that features minced beef or lamb, rice, cinnamon, burghul and biber salcasi (pepper paste).
4. Eggplants are a ball of comfort when you need it
The only thing crumby about these eggplant meatballs is the outer coating (and believe us, this is a great thing!). Anything left over from a previous meal can go into a polpetta or polpettina (meatball) and it's a good way to use up your leftovers.
5. There's no 'i' in eggplant
Such a team player, eggplant sings harmoniously in this vegetarian green curry thanks to Chat Thai's Amy Chanta. With an abundance of herbs, this bowl really celebrates Thai flavours and an array of eggplant varieties.
6. They aren't afraid to embrace their cheesy side
It is one of Italy’s most famous dishes and this eggplant parmigiana calls on mozzarella, pecorino and Parmesan as well as a smoky twist - thanks to slices of leg ham! Eating straight from the pan is more than acceptable, we recommend it!
Seriously impressive, this eggplant really is the whole baba! Cooking your eggplant directly on coals adds so much flavour and chef Joseph Abboud whipped this up in under 10 minutes once the eggplant was cooked and peeled.
8. They love a good dress up party
Strange as it may sound, there is eggplant in this dark chocolate brownie. Definitely, don't knock it 'til you try it.
9. The perfect picnic pal
This eggplant and miso dip is a great addition to any picnic blanket. It puts a unique twist on the traditional dip and it's so versatile that you can even use it as your base for an open sandwich.
10. They're really the whole package
Tender slow-braised lamb neck fills these hollowed-out eggplants. Instead of a creamy bechamel sauce, this moussaka recipe uses a silky smoked eggplant cream and is then topped with baked ricotta before being baked whole in the oven. What a showstopper!
For more eggplant goodies check out our collection right here.
Have we got your attention and your tastebuds? This week, The Chefs' Line is all about Italian food and culture. Tune in 6pm weeknights to SBS and check out the program page for episode guides, cuisine lowdowns, recipes and more.
SBS Food is a 24/7 foodie channel for all Australians, with a focus on simple, authentic and everyday food inspiration from cultures everywhere. NSW stream only. Read more about SBS Food
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