Eggplants, also known as aubergines, are a staple in many cuisines worldwide. With their vibrant colors, unique shapes, and versatile culinary uses, eggplants have become a favorite for gardeners and chefs alike.
In this guide, we’ll explore 21 types of eggplants, their distinctive features, uses, and how to care for them.
Common Eggplant Varieties (with Pictures)
Globe Eggplant (American Eggplant)
The globe eggplant is large, round to slightly oval, with deep purple and glossy skin, making it one of the most recognizable varieties. It has a meaty texture and a mild flavor, though it can be slightly bitter if not prepared properly; salting and draining before cooking helps reduce this. This versatile eggplant is perfect for hearty dishes like Eggplant Parmesan, and its large size makes it ideal for roasting, grilling, frying, stuffing, or slicing into thick rounds for layered recipes.
Italian Eggplant
Smaller than the globe variety, the Italian eggplant often has a teardrop shape and a similar deep purple color. It is sweeter and more tender, with a delicate flesh that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Italian eggplants are a staple in dishes like Caponata and Melanzane alla Parmigiana, and they are also delicious when grilled with olive oil or added to pasta recipes for a rich, sweet flavor.
Japanese Eggplant
Japanese eggplants are long, slender, and dark purple, with a thinner skin and fewer seeds than other varieties. They are less bitter and develop a creamy, smooth texture when cooked, making them especially appealing in lighter dishes. These eggplants are perfect for stir-fries, grilling, or braising. Their shape and tenderness make them ideal for recipes like miso-glazed eggplant or quick sautés.
Chinese Eggplant
Chinese eggplants are longer and thinner than Japanese eggplants, with a delicate lavender color that sets them apart. They have a sweet, tender flesh with fewer seeds, making them less bitter and easy to cook with. These eggplants are ideal for stir-fries, braised dishes, or any recipe where they can absorb rich flavors, such as garlic sauce or spicy marinades.
Fairy Tale Eggplant
Fairy tale eggplants are small and uniquely beautiful, with purple and white striped exteriors that give them a whimsical, storybook-like appearance. Their flesh is sweet, tender, and has minimal seeds, making them perfect for grilling whole or slicing into rounds for appetizers or side dishes. Their size and aesthetic appeal make them a favorite for elegant plating.
Graffiti Eggplant (Zebra or Sicilian Eggplant)
Graffiti eggplants are medium-sized with eye-catching purple and white stripes, rounder in shape than Italian varieties. They have sweet flesh and thin skin, with a mild flavor that’s never overly bitter. These versatile eggplants work well in any dish that calls for globe eggplant and are excellent for grilling, roasting, or pureeing into smooth dips and spreads.
Indian Eggplant (Baby Eggplant)
Indian eggplants are small, round to oval, with dark purple skin and green calyx. They are slightly crunchy when young but become tender as they mature. This variety is a staple in Indian and Pakistani cuisine, commonly used in curries, stews, and stuffed dishes like Baingan Bharta. Their size and shape make them ideal for whole cooking, absorbing spices and flavors beautifully.
Thai Eggplant
Thai eggplants are small and round, often green or white, though purple varieties also exist. They have a crisp texture when raw but can be slightly bitter, especially if the seeds are not removed. These eggplants shine in Thai curries, where they soak up the bold, spicy flavors. They can also be used raw in salads or pickled for a tangy twist.
White Eggplant
White eggplants range in shape from egg-like to oval, with smooth, pure white skin. They have a mild flavor and a creamy texture, with less bitterness compared to their purple counterparts. These eggplants are versatile and work well in grilling, baking, or any dish where a gentler eggplant flavor is desired, making them a refined choice for many recipes.
Rosa Bianca Eggplant
Rosa Bianca eggplants are large and round, with a stunning ombre of purple and white skin that makes them visually unique. They have a very mild, almost sweet flavor with no bitterness and a tender texture when cooked. This variety is perfect for grilling, roasting, or featuring in dishes where the eggplant takes center stage, such as stuffed eggplant or elegant layered recipes.
Listada de Gandia Eggplant
Listada de Gandia eggplants are medium-sized with an elongated, teardrop shape, adorned with striking purple and white stripes. They have a mild, sweet flavor and very thin skin, with tender seeds that are not overly bitter. This variety is ideal for dishes where presentation is key, like caponata or grilled slices. Its aesthetic appeal also makes it popular in gardens as a decorative plant alongside its culinary uses.
Turkish Orange Eggplant
Turkish orange eggplants are small to medium in size, round to slightly oval, with bright orange skin when fully mature. They are sweet with a dense, creamy texture when cooked. These vibrant eggplants are versatile and can be roasted, stuffed, or added to salads, bringing a pop of color and sweetness to any dish. Their unique appearance also makes them a striking addition to any table setting.
Apple Green Eggplant
Apple Green eggplants are round and resemble an apple in shape, with a vibrant green color that fades to yellow as they ripen. They have a mild flavor, less bitter than many purple varieties, and a tender, almost creamy texture when cooked. This variety is excellent for stir-fries, grilling, or inclusion in Thai or Indian dishes where a milder taste is desired. Its unique color adds a striking visual appeal to any dish.
Ping Tung Long Eggplant
Ping Tung Long eggplants are long and slender, similar in shape to Chinese eggplants but often with a richer purple hue. They are very tender and sweet, with minimal seeds, making them almost seedless. This variety is ideal for slicing lengthwise and grilling, or for use in dishes that call for long, elegant slices. It’s especially suited for Asian stir-fries or braised preparations.
Kermit Eggplant
Kermit eggplants are small, round, and deep green in color, reminiscent of the shade of a Kermit frog. They have a slightly bitter flavor when raw but sweeten as they cook, with a dense, meaty texture. These eggplants are perfect for stuffing due to their compact size or for pickling. Their unique flavor and color add an interesting twist to a variety of dishes.
Ichiban Eggplant
Ichiban eggplants are slim and elongated with dark purple skin, resembling Japanese eggplants but often longer. They are very tender and sweet, with minimal seeds, making them perfect for quick cooking methods. This variety excels in stir-fries, tempura, or any dish where a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture is desired.
Prosperosa Eggplant
Prosperosa eggplants are large and round, with a rich reddish-purple hue. They are prized for their sweet, flavorful flesh, which has fewer seeds than many other varieties, making them less watery and more versatile in cooking. This eggplant is ideal for grilling whole or halved, roasting, or featuring in traditional Sicilian dishes like caponata, where its natural sweetness balances other robust flavors.
Santorini Eggplant (Long Eggplant)
Santorini eggplants are long and slender, with lighter purple skin that is sometimes variegated. They have a creamy texture and a mild, sweet taste, especially when cooked. These eggplants are a staple in Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine, often used in dishes designed to absorb the flavors of herbs, olive oil, and spices. They are perfect for grilling, frying, or layering in dishes like moussaka.
Eggplant Care Guide
Growing Conditions
Eggplants require full sunlight to thrive, so they should be exposed to direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours each day. This ensures they receive enough energy for healthy growth and fruit production. For optimal growth, eggplants need soil that drains well and is rich in nutrients. The ideal pH range for the soil is between 6.0 and 6.8, as this allows for better nutrient absorption.
In terms of temperature, eggplants grow best in warm climates. They thrive when the temperature is between 70-85°F (21-29°C). Consistent warmth is key for producing strong, healthy plants and fruit.
Planting Tips
To get a head start, it’s best to begin sowing eggplant seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. This gives the plants a good head start before being transplanted outside. When planting outdoors, ensure that eggplants are spaced 18-24 inches apart. This distance allows for proper airflow around each plant, reducing the risk of diseases and promoting healthy growth.
If you are growing taller varieties, it’s essential to use stakes or cages for support. These structures will keep the plants upright and prevent them from falling over, especially when they start bearing fruit.
Watering and Fertilization
Eggplants need consistent moisture to grow, but it’s important to avoid waterlogging the soil. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy, ensuring the roots receive enough water without becoming submerged. Regular watering is crucial, particularly during hot periods.
For fertilization, use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. This will provide the plants with the necessary nutrients to promote healthy growth and abundant fruiting. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid over-fertilizing.
Common Pests and Diseases
Eggplants are susceptible to a few pests, including aphids, flea beetles, and spider mites. To keep these pests under control, neem oil or insecticidal soap can be applied as needed. These treatments are effective and gentle on the plants.
In terms of diseases, fungal problems can arise, particularly if the plants are too crowded or watered improperly. To minimize the risk of fungal issues, make sure to space the plants appropriately. Avoid watering the foliage, as this can promote fungal growth. Watering directly at the base of the plants ensures the soil stays moist without wetting the leaves.
Conclusion
With so many types of eggplants to explore, there’s a variety for every garden and dish. By following this guide, you’ll not only grow healthy eggplants but also enjoy their unique flavors and textures in your cooking. Start experimenting with these 21 varieties and elevate your garden and kitchen to new heights!
