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 whole baba and vegetarian green curry to a sweet chocolate brownie, here's why the eggplant always stacks up.
All hail ! 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.
Source: Poh & Co. 2
Pomegranate, capsicum and freekeh team up with eggplant in this that is hearty, easy and packed with loads of herbs.
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).
The only thing crumby about these is the outer coating (and believe us, this is a great thing!). Anything left over from a previous meal can go into a and it's a good way to use up your leftovers.
Source: Stefano Manfredi's Italian Food
Such a team player, eggplant sings harmoniously in this thanks to Amy Chanta. With an abundance of herbs, this bowl really celebrates Thai flavours and an array of eggplant varieties.
Eggplant and pumpkin green curry Source: Sharyn cairns
It is one of Italy’s most famous dishes and this 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!
Eggplant Parmigiana (Parmigiana Siciliana della Nonna) Source: The Chefs' Line Series 2
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.
The whole baba Source: Sharyn Cairns
Strange as it may sound, there is eggplant in this . Definitely, don't knock it 'til you try it.
Strange as it may sound, there is eggplant in this dark chocolate brownie. Definitely don't knock it 'til you try it. Source: Simon & Schuster
This 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.
Eggplant miso dip Source: China Squirrel
Tender slow-braised lamb neck fills these hollowed-out eggplants. Instead of a creamy bechamel sauce, this 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 right here.
Whole eggplant and lamb moussaka Source: China Squirrel
Have we got your attention and your tastebuds? This week, is all about Italian food and culture. Tune in 6pm weeknights to SBS and check out the for episode guides, cuisine lowdowns, recipes and more.
