There’s a reason eggplants are so deeply embedded in global cuisine. They’re tender, mild, and sweet, and the cooking possibilities with eggplants are virtually endless. Use them for spreads or add them to curries and even salads. But did you know that eggplants aren’t just purple and green? You also get white eggplants!
White eggplants are generally a total hit or a complete disappointment, depending on your preference. Folks who’ve grown around the fruit (yes, technically, eggplants are a fruit) either find it delightful or absolutely disgusting. But with these 6 amazing white eggplant recipes from around the world, you might just find your new favorite meal.
1. Pasta Sauce with White Eggplant and Leek
This hearty pasta is all you need to make your day perfect. The white eggplant and leek ooze deliciousness as they incorporate cooked vegetables with fried garlic. Simmer everything for about 1-2 minutes, then add sour cream to finish. Serve it with pasta, and you’re in for a treat.
2. White Eggplant Ratatouille
This classic French recipe is as uncomplicated as it gets. Dice those zucchini, white eggplant (salted and dried), and bell peppers your kids wanted nothing to do with, along with some carrots, tomatoes, and red onions. Sprinkle your favorite herbs, and layer the veggies. Sauté or roast, and top it with some simple basil dressing. Serve as a side dish or a main with some roasted chicken, beef, or fish.
3. Pan-Fried White Eggplant With Onion, Caper, and Herb Sauce
Take the easy way out with this simple dish, perfect for weight-conscious folks. Peeled and chopped, the white eggplant is cooked in a bit of olive oil. The sauce is a magical blend of capers, balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, parsley, sauteed onions and garlic, and a tangy zing of lemon. Sauce up the cooked eggplants and serve immediately. Enjoy this low carb, high fiber vegetarian dish as-is, or add in some fried fish!
4. Vietnamese Eggplant With Spicy Sauce
If you’re an eggplant fan, this simple recipe is a must-try. Just cook sliced white eggplants until soft and golden brown in some oil. Pair it with a spicy sauce made with lemongrass, garlic, green onion, basil, red chili pepper, and ginger with a splash of oil, and let it simmer. Add oyster sauce and sugar to make all the flavors pop. Serve with a traditional vermicelli bowl and a garnish of cilantro, green onion, or basil.
5. White Eggplants in a Sesame and Spices Crust
Who doesn’t love sweet, nutty flavored white eggplants mixed with some spicy herbs? This dish is made with two white eggplants, some all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, some ground pepper, sweet paprika, and other spices, along with eggs and a little bit of creamy whipping cream. It’s best served with a refreshing minty yogurt or in flatbread wraps with homemade pickled cucumber ribbons and beetroot hummus.
6. Stuffed White Eggplant
This delicious stuffed white eggplant makes for a hearty side dish, or can even be the star of your meal. The recipe calls for tangy tomato combined with deliciously aromatic garlic and warm banana peppers, the cheesiest of cheeses — mozzarella. Stuff it all into a boat of eggplant and you have the best, finger-licking plate of food you’ll ever make.
