Love eggplant, but don’t love that it’s sometimes bitter?
You’re not alone!
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Eggplants usually have a subtle sweet taste and are creamy when prepared properly.
Simply Recipes / Adobe Stock
Because they are so porous, they take on flavors beautifully, likemiso and gingerorgreen curry.
Though I love eggplants, sometimes they can be so bitter.
Here’s what an expert says about why eggplant can be bitter and how to avoid it.
Lori Rice
4 Reasons Your Eggplant Is Bitter
1.
Eggplants can have the alkaloid solanine, which can give it a bitter taste.
(Yes, eggplant is a fruit.)
Sally Vargas
Eggplant Variety: The bitterness can also depend on the variety.
Growing Conditions: The conditions under which eggplant is grown can also affect bitterness.
First, confirm you buy the freshest eggplant you could find.
Simply Recipes / Micah Siva
Look for one with shiny, taut skin and no wrinkles.
It should feel firm to the touch.
Your cooking method can also have an impact on bitterness.
Peel the skin or taste and cook the eggplant for a little longer if that’s the case.
Other tips to help lessen bitterness:
Is It Safe To Eat Bitter Eggplant?
In general, its safe to eat bitter eggplant unless you are sensitive to the compound solanine.
Theres usually not enough present to cause serious health issues.
But if you cant tolerate this chemical compound, you might have digestive problems.
Other people might simply not enjoy the bitter flavor.
Simply Recipes / Micah Siva
