Should eggplant be peeled?

Should Eggplant be Peeled?

When it comes to cooking eggplant, one of the most common questions that arises is whether or not to peel the vegetable. The answer to this question is not a simple one, as it depends on various factors such as the type of eggplant, the recipe, and personal preference. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of peeling eggplant and provide some guidance on when to peel and when to leave it unpeeled.

Why Peel Eggplant?

There are several reasons why you might want to peel eggplant:

• Removing bitterness: Some people find that eggplant can be quite bitter, and peeling it can help to remove some of this bitterness. Eggplant contains a compound called solanine, which can give it a bitter taste. Peeling the eggplant can help to reduce the amount of solanine that is absorbed into the flesh.
• Improving texture: Peeling eggplant can also help to improve its texture. The skin of the eggplant can be quite tough and fibrous, which can make it unpleasant to eat. By removing the skin, you can achieve a smoother, more tender texture.
• Reducing calories: Eggplant skin is relatively high in calories, so peeling it can help to reduce the overall calorie count of your dish. One cup of peeled eggplant contains only 25 calories, compared to 45 calories in one cup of unpeeled eggplant.

Why Not Peel Eggplant?

On the other hand, there are also some good reasons why you might not want to peel eggplant:

• Retaining nutrients: Eggplant skin is rich in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Peeling the eggplant can remove some of these nutrients, which can be a significant loss.
• Adding flavor: The skin of the eggplant can also add flavor to your dish. The skin contains a compound called nasunin, which has been shown to have antioxidant properties. By leaving the skin on, you can retain some of this flavor and nutritional value.
• Reducing waste: Peeling eggplant can be a bit of a hassle, and it can also result in a significant amount of waste. By leaving the skin on, you can reduce the amount of waste generated by your cooking.

When to Peel Eggplant

So, when should you peel eggplant and when should you leave it unpeeled? Here are some general guidelines:

• For dishes where texture is important: If you’re making a dish where texture is important, such as a ratatouille or a eggplant parmesan, it’s a good idea to peel the eggplant. The skin can be quite tough and fibrous, which can make the dish unpleasant to eat.
• For dishes where flavor is important: If you’re making a dish where flavor is important, such as a stir-fry or a curry, it’s a good idea to leave the skin on. The skin contains a compound called nasunin, which has been shown to have antioxidant properties.
• For dishes where nutrients are important: If you’re making a dish where nutrients are important, such as a soup or a stew, it’s a good idea to leave the skin on. The skin is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can be an important part of a healthy diet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether or not to peel eggplant is a matter of personal preference and the type of dish you’re making. If you’re looking to improve the texture and reduce the bitterness of the eggplant, peeling it may be a good option. However, if you’re looking to retain the nutrients and flavor of the eggplant, leaving the skin on may be a better choice.

Table: Pros and Cons of Peeling Eggplant

Table: When to Peel Eggplant

I hope this article has provided some helpful guidance on whether or not to peel eggplant. Remember, the key is to consider the type of dish you’re making and your personal preferences when deciding whether or not to peel the eggplant.