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Baby eggplants are petite with varying shapes from short and stout to slightly elongated and narrow, averaging only 5-7 centimeters in length. They have a slight tapering towards the stem capped top or calyx, and their smooth skin is thin, ranging from shiny deep purple, bright white and lavender to green depending upon variety. Its tender flesh is cream colored with a subtly sweet flavor.
Seasons/Availability
Baby eggplants are available year-round.
Current Facts
Baby eggplants, botanically classified as Solanum melongena, are a member of the nightshade family along with tomatoes and potatoes. The term "baby" in Baby eggplant refers to its petite size and not the maturity level of the eggplant. Baby eggplants are sometimes marketed as Indian eggplant and Patio eggplant, and there are other baby-sized varieties like Thai and Bambino hybrid eggplant.
Nutritional Value
Baby eggplants are an excellent source of dietary fiber which helps to maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar level in the body.
Applications
Baby eggplants can be fried, braised, roasted, and grilled. When cooked, the texture of Baby eggplant is hearty making it perfect for use as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan preparations. Their small size makes them ideal for one bite appetizers hollowed and stuffed with fillings and then baked. Baby eggplants can also be roasted and pureed or chopped to make chutney, tapenade, and other dips. Baby eggplant pairs well with garlic, coriander, turmeric, cumin, balsamic, parsley, tomatoes, onions, peppers, zucchini, and goat cheese. Fresh Baby eggplant is highly perishable and should be used within two days when stored in a cool and dry place.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Candied Baby eggplant is a traditional snack in Syria, Morocco, and Greece. While each culture has a slightly different variation, natural syrup from dates, honey, and maple syrup are used to create the sweet and sticky snack. Candied Baby eggplant is traditionally consumed by itself with tea or coffee or is spread on meats such as lamb or turkey to create a sweet and savory combination.
Geography/History
Eggplant is believed to be native to China and India, later making its way to Europe in the 13th century. The first eggplants were small and round to oval in shape much like the modern Baby eggplant we enjoy today, a shape and size which is responsible for the eggplant's namesake. Today Baby eggplants can be found at farmers markets and specialty grocers in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Peachtree Road Farmers Market
(404) 365-1105
https://peachtreeroadfarmersmarket.com/
Baby eggplants are small, measuring only 5-7 centimeters in length, with shapes that range from short and stout to slightly elongated and narrow. They have a slight taper near the stem and a smooth, thin skin that varies in color depending on the variety, including deep purple, bright white, lavender, or green. The flesh inside is tender and cream-colored, offering a subtly sweet flavor that makes them distinct from larger eggplants.
Isetan Shinjuku 伊勢丹 新宿店
3 Chome-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Baby eggplants are versatile ingredients that can be fried, braised, roasted, or grilled, with a hearty texture suitable as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan dishes. Their small size is perfect for appetizers when hollowed and stuffed, or they can be pureed to make dips like chutney and tapenade. They pair well with herbs and spices such as garlic, coriander, turmeric, and cumin, as well as vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, and goat cheese. Fresh Baby eggplant should be used within two days for best quality.
Weiser Family Farms
Baby eggplants: Baby eggplants, also known as Solanum melongena, belong to the nightshade family alongside tomatoes and potatoes. Despite being labeled as "baby," their name refers to their small size rather than their age or maturity. They are sometimes marketed under names such as Indian eggplant or Patio eggplant, with other small varieties including Thai and Bambino hybrid eggplants.
Lee Lee International Market
7575 W Cactus Road Peoria AZ 85381
(623) 773-3345
Eggplant: Eggplant is native to China and India, where it originated before being introduced to Europe during the 13th century. The vegetable's name was inspired by its early varieties, which were small and round to oval in shape, resembling eggs. Modern Baby eggplants share a similar shape and can be found in farmers markets and specialty grocers across the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Ted's Veg
Candied Baby Eggplant is a traditional snack enjoyed in Syria, Morocco, and Greece. These cultures each have unique variations, but the treat is commonly made using natural syrups like date syrup, honey, or maple syrup. It can be eaten alone with tea or coffee or paired with meats like lamb or turkey, where the sweet and sticky flavors complement the savory taste of the dish.
Bombay Bazaar
2284 Griffin Way #101 Corona CA 92879
(951) 272-3820
Baby eggplants are small, measuring just 5-7 centimeters in length, with shapes ranging from short and stout to elongated and narrow. Their thin, smooth skin comes in a variety of colors such as deep purple, bright white, lavender, and green, depending on the variety. Inside, their tender cream-colored flesh offers a subtly sweet flavor, making them versatile and delightful in many dishes.
My Market - E La Palma Ave
5755 E La Palma Blvd Anaheim CA 92807
(714) 779-7000
Baby eggplants: Baby eggplants are versatile and can be fried, roasted, braised, or grilled, offering a hearty texture ideal for vegetarian and vegan dishes. Their compact size makes them perfect for appetizers when stuffed and baked. They pair exceptionally well with garlic, turmeric, cumin, balsamic, parsley, and tomatoes, as well as goat cheese. Store them in a cool, dry place and use them within two days for the best freshness.
Good Food Market
1864 E Washington Blvd
#106 Pasadena CA 91104
(626) 204-0171
Baby eggplants are botanically classified as Solanum melongena and belong to the nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes and potatoes. Despite the name, "baby" refers to their small size and not their age or maturity. They are sometimes marketed as Indian eggplant or Patio eggplant, with additional varieties like Thai and Bambino hybrid eggplants also belonging to the baby-sized category.
Elat Market - W Pico
8730 W Pico Blvd Los Angeles CA 90035
(310) 659-7076
Eggplant: Eggplant is native to China and India, spreading to Europe in the 13th century. Early eggplants were small and round, resembling the modern Baby eggplant, which inspired the vegetable's name. These Baby eggplants are still popular and commonly found in farmers markets and specialty grocers across the United States, Europe, and Asia today.
Pioneer Cash & Carry - Pioneer Blvd
18601 Pioneer Blvd Artesia CA 90701
(562) 809-9433
Candied Baby Eggplant: This sweet snack is popular in Syria, Morocco, and Greece, with variations tailored to each culture. Made using natural syrups like honey, date syrup, or maple syrup, it offers a sticky texture and rich flavor. It can be enjoyed alone with tea or coffee or paired with meats such as lamb or turkey for an indulgent sweet and savory twist.
is easiest, three is harder.
