Eggplant, with its rich texture and ability to absorb flavors, makes for an incredibly versatile ingredient in many dishes around the world. From smoky spreads to hearty main courses, here are six eggplant dishes you absolutely must try.
Baba Ganoush - This Middle Eastern eggplant spread is a delightful mix of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors. To prepare, grill or roast whole eggplants until their skin is charred and the inside is tender. Peel off the charred skin, then puree the flesh with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Serve it with warm pita bread or crisp vegetables for dipping.
Ratatouille - A staple of French Provencal cuisine, ratatouille is a vibrant vegetable stew that highlights eggplant along with bell peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, and onions. Each vegetable is sautéed separately to maintain its distinct texture and flavor, then combined and simmered with herbs like thyme and basil. It’s perfect as a side dish or served over rice or bread.
Moussaka - Often seen in Greek and Turkish cuisines, moussaka is a rich, layered casserole. The traditional version includes slices of roasted eggplant layered with spiced ground lamb or beef, covered in a béchamel sauce, and baked until golden and bubbly. Variations may include potatoes or zucchini.
Eggplant Parmesan - This Italian-American classic features slices of breaded and fried eggplant layered with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, then baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden. It’s a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with pasta or crusty bread.
Szechuan Eggplant - This Chinese dish, also known as yú xiāng qié zi, is a spicy, sweet-and-sour treat. Eggplant is cut into strips and stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and scallions, then coated in a sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and chili paste. It’s typically served hot with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a side of steamed rice.
Baingan Bharta - A popular dish in Indian cuisine, baingan bharta involves roasting eggplant until it’s fully charred, then mashing it and cooking it with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and plenty of spices such as cumin and coriander. This smoky, spicy dish is typically enjoyed with flatbread like naan or roti, and it’s both comforting and flavorful.
Each of these dishes showcases the eggplant in a unique way, transforming its simple flavor into something truly special. Whether you’re into creamy dips, hearty casseroles, or vibrant stews, there’s an eggplant dish on this list that’s sure to delight your palate.