Eggplants come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors. Two of the more popular varieties are white and purple eggplant. While the two look and even have a similar flavor profile, there are some distinct differences between the two that make them ideal for different culinary applications. This article will explore the difference between white and purple eggplant to help cooks better understand the nuances between them.
Color
In terms of color, of course, the main difference between white and purple eggplant is quite obvious. White eggplant is a pale off-white, while purple eggplant has an deep, eggplant hue. In addition to the obvious visual distinctions, the pigments in the skin of the eggplants also set them apart, with the purple eggplant’s skin containing anthocyanins, which provide antioxidant properties.
Because the colors offer different visual properties to the dishes in which they are used, white and purple eggplant are used in different ways in the kitchen. While purple eggplant adds a pop of color to bright, summer salads and cold dishes, white eggplant is often used in warm preparations like grilled eggplant or ratatouille where the white is not as noticeable.
Texture
In addition to color, the texture of white eggplant also differs from that of purple eggplant. Whereas the purple eggplant has a dense and fairly firm flesh, the white eggplant is softer and has an ooey-gooey texture when cooked. This makes it ideal for dishes like eggplant Parmesan and eggplant Parmigiana. The white eggplant also has very few seeds, so it’s also a great choice when making smooth, creamy dishes like baba ghanoush.
Meanwhile, purple eggplant holds its shape better than white eggplant when cooked, so it’s great for dishes where the eggplant needs to stay in cubes or slices, such as roasted eggplant or grilled eggplant. It also takes longer to cook, so if you’re looking for a quicker eggplant dish, white eggplant is the way to go.
Taste
Taste-wise, the two are quite similar. Both eggplants are mild and slightly sweet and can be used interchangeably in many recipes. The main difference is the texture, with purple eggplant having a firmer texture and white eggplant having a softer and more gooey texture.
The slight difference in flavor means that purple eggplant is better for dishes where the eggplant flavor is not the main focus of the dish, like ratatouille. White eggplant, on the other hand, is better suited for dishes when the eggplant plays the starring role, such as eggplant Parmesan or baba ghanoush.
Uses
The main way in which white and purple eggplant differ, aside from color and texture, is in the ways they are used in the kitchen. As mentioned before, purple eggplant is great for dishes that need the eggplant to hold its shape and retain its color, such as roasted eggplant or grilled eggplant. White eggplant, on the other hand, is great for creamier dishes, like baba ghanoush where the white eggplant’s soft, gooey texture complements the creamy dip perfectly.
In terms of flavor, both white and purple eggplant can be used interchangeably in many recipes, but white eggplant does have a slight edge when it comes to dishes like eggplant Parmesan where the eggplant flavor needs to take center stage.
Nutritional Value
Nutrition-wise, the two eggplants are quite similar. Both white and purple eggplant are low in calories and contain some essential vitamins and minerals. However, the purple eggplant contains the antioxidant anthocyanin in its skin, which can provide some additional health benefits.
In terms of calories, white eggplant edges out purple eggplant, coming in at just 15 calories per 100 grams, while purple eggplant has a slightly higher calorie count at 19 calories. Additionally, both offer some dietary fiber and vitamin C, although neither offers a significant amount.
Availability and Cost
As far as availability goes, both white and purple eggplant are widely available and can be found in most grocery stores. Purple eggplant, however, is much more common than white eggplant. White eggplant can be a bit harder to find and may only be available in specialty stores.
In terms of cost, both are relatively inexpensive, but white eggplant is often a bit pricier, due to its more limited availability. Additionally, the cost can also vary depending on the season, with white eggplant being more expensive in the spring and summer months.
Cooking Methods
In terms of cooking methods, both white and purple eggplant do well with a variety of cooking techniques. Both are fairly versatile and can be boiled, baked, grilled, or roasted. However, because of its softer texture, white eggplant is better suited for dishes where you want the eggplant to have a softer texture and the white to remain visible, such as eggplant Parmesan.
Purple eggplant, on the other hand, holds its shape better and can be left in cubes or slices, making it great for dishes like ratatouille or roasted eggplant. It also takes a bit longer to cook than white eggplant, so if you’re looking for a quicker eggplant dish, then the white eggplant is the way to go.
Storage
In terms of storage, both white and purple eggplant can be stored similarly. Both should be kept refrigerated and used within a few days of purchase. Once cut, the eggplant should be used as soon as possible, as the flesh can quickly lose moisture and turn bitter.
For the best results, either type of eggplant should be stored unwashed and in a breathable container, such as a paper or cloth bag. Both should also be handled with care, as bruising can reduce the eggplant’s quality and lifespan.
Substitutions
If you can’t find either white or purple eggplant, there are some other options that can be used in the same dishes. For example, zucchini can be used as a substitute for white eggplant in dishes like ratatouille. It has a similar mild flavor, but a firmer texture.
For purple eggplant, zucchini can also be used, however, it won’t retain its shape as well as the purple eggplant. Other options include Asian varieties like Japanese eggplant, which is much firmer and has a mild sweetness.
Recipes
White and purple eggplant can both be used in a variety of recipes. White eggplant is great for dishes like eggplant Parmesan or baba ghanoush, while purple eggplant is perfect for roasted or grilled eggplant dishes.
No matter what type of eggplant you’re using, there is sure to be a recipe to suit your tastes. From spiced eggplant curry to simple grilled eggplant, the possibilities are endless.
Summary
White and purple eggplant have similar flavor profiles, but differ in terms of color, texture, and the ways they are used in the kitchen. White eggplant has a pale off-white color and a soft, gooey texture, making it ideal for dishes where the eggplant flavor needs to take center stage, such as eggplant Parmesan. Purple eggplant, on the other hand, has a dark eggplant hue and firmer texture, making it great for dishes where the eggplant needs to hold its shape, such as roasted eggplant or ratatouille. However, both are equally nutritious and versatile, and can be used in a variety of dishes.
