Chinese Eggplant – All You Need to Know | Instacart Guide to Fresh Produce

What is Chinese eggplant?

Chinese eggplants are just one of many varieties of eggplant. Eggplants are often thought of as vegetables, but they are actually fruits. Some even consider them to be berries, despite their large form. Also called aubergine, melongene, brinjal, or guinea squash, eggplants are part of the Solanaceae family. Chinese eggplants are sometimes called Oriental Charm and Pingtung Long. Like tomatoes, the seeds and the skin of eggplants are edible.

A specific and popular type of eggplant, Chinese eggplants have fewer seeds and thinner skin than their sister varieties. Larger eggplants are called “globes,” but Chinese eggplants are long and thin. They are lighter lavender than some of their counterparts and are less bitter. Either straight or crooked, they have firm white flesh and can be used in various dishes.

Dishes that normally call for eggplant can be made with Chinese eggplant, but some recipes are unique to the variety. Chinese eggplant with garlic sauce is the most common delicacy. Because of its shape, it can easily be cut into slices or cubes, adding to its versatility. It doesn’t need to be salted before preparation, like some of its counterparts. It absorbs oils and flavors through cooking, making it a useful addition to any dish that has strong and unique tastes.

For example, Chinese eggplants can be combined with garlic, ginger, chilies, soy sauce, cilantro vinegar, and sesame oil. Other popular companions include chicken, pork, chickpeas, lentils, fermented beans, and various greens and summer vegetables like squash and tomatoes.

Where did Chinese eggplant originate from?

Most of the world’s eggplant comes from China and India. But it can also be found in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa, and Quebec. It is believed to have first appeared in India (where it still grows wild) about 1,500 years ago. It was then introduced to Europe and transported by the Persians to Africa as trade routes expanded.

What are the benefits of eating Chinese eggplant?

In addition to its taste and a broad range of cooking options, Chinese eggplant boasts a solid nutrition profile. Low in carbs and calories, it contains fiber, protein, manganese, folate, potassium, vitamin K, vitamin C, and small amounts of niacin, magnesium, and copper.

Because Chinese eggplants are high in fiber, they are filling, so they are a good choice for weight loss regimens. Preliminary animal research has shown that eggplants positively impact heart function and lower cholesterol and triglycerides, but human studies have yet to be performed.

How is Chinese eggplant grown?

Chinese eggplants must be cultivated in sunlight in well-drained and fertile soil. June is the best month for planting them. Seedlings take between 50 and 60 days to mature. The plants themselves typically grow between 18in and 30in tall. The best way to pick eggplants when they are bright and shiny. They can grow to about 8in long and 2in in diameter.

When is Chinese eggplant in season?

While Chinese eggplant is at its peak between July and October, it’s available year-round. This gives it a distinct advantage over many other types of fresh produce.

What should I look for when buying Chinese eggplant?

As in selecting any eggplant, look for those that have shiny skin without soft spots or blemishes. They should be firm to the touch. If the skin is dull, that means the Chinese eggplant is too ripe and should be avoided. When cut open, the skin should be white rather than yellow.

Chinese eggplants should feel heavy for their size. Lighter ones may be past their prime and not as tasty or meaty. If you are looking to have your groceries delivered, you can easily shop for Chinese eggplant via Instacart. After adding a product to your cart, use the “Instructions” option to notify your Instacart shopper about any preferences or specific directions on how to choose the best products. Shop for Chinese eggplant.

How to store Chinese eggplant

Do not peel or slice the Chinese eggplant when it arrives in your kitchen. Simply put it in a plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator crisper drawer. If it’s large or your drawer is full, store it on a shelf. Forcing it to fit in a small place can damage the skin and internal flesh.

If delivered fresh and properly stored, Chinese eggplants will last up to about 5 days. Some food experts recommend storing eggplants outside the refrigerator, away from direct sunlight.

Storing Chinese eggplants with other types of fresh produce may cause them to spoil more quickly. Bananas, melons, and tomatoes all produce a natural gas called ethylene. When Chinese eggplants are stored near them, they are sensitive to the gas, so that they will ripen rapidly.

What can I substitute for Chinese eggplant?

A “regular” globe eggplant can be substituted for a Chinese eggplant, but remember that it will have more seeds and a stronger eggplant flavor. Because of its size, it may also be more difficult to cut into cubes. Japanese eggplants are also a good alternative. They are similar in size and shape to their Chinese eggplant counterparts.

If a recipe calls for small slices of eggplant, Italian eggplants are another good choice. Long and slim, they are shaped much like Chinese eggplants.

Other types of fresh produce that can be used in recipes instead of Chinese eggplant include portobello mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, squashes like zucchini, and even green tomatoes.

An Instacart shopper will be able to advise you on which types of produce are in-season and readily available.

Where can I find Chinese eggplant near me?

When ordering fresh produce, look for a source that ensures your Chinese eggplant arrives fresh.

Having your fresh produce delivered fresh within 2 hours gives you more time for searching recipes and cooking. Plus, having the assurance that your Chinese eggplant (and complementary ingredients) are well-selected and high quality is a huge benefit.

Instacart

Author

Instacart is the leading grocery technology company in North America, partnering with more than 1,400 national, regional, and local retail banners to deliver from more than 80,000 stores across more than 14,000 cities in North America. To read more Instacart posts, you can browse the company blog or search by keyword using the search bar at the top of the page.