Eggplant

The eggplant is a member of the potato family. It grows year around and grows best during August and September.

When buying eggplants, the smaller ones are better. Eggplants will perish quickly and become bitter. This is a popular vegetable throughout the world.

" Smaller, immature eggplants are best. Full-size puffy ones may have hard seeds and can be bitter. Choose a firm, smooth-skinned eggplant that is heavy for its size; avoid those with soft or brown spots. Gently push with your thumb or forefinger. If the flesh gives slightly but then bounces back, it is ripe. If the indentation remains, it is overripe and the insides will be mushy. If there is no give, the eggplant was picked too early. Also make sure an eggplant isn't dry inside, knock on it with your knuckles. If you hear a hollow sound, don't buy it. NOTE: Whether or not there is an appreciable difference, I don't know." Thanks to whatscookingamerica.net for the great eggplant info!

For some great eggplant recipes, check out: vegweb.com

Also, when buying eggplant, if possible, buy organic, as it is grown without pesticides and chemicals.