Eggplants are the second most important solanaceous fruit crop after the tomato. The Solanum is a 1400 species-rich genera of flowering plants that occur in a wide variety of habitats on all continents except Antarctica. Filipino eggplant is the given name to a variety of Asian eggplant, Solanum melongena L., that is cultivated in the Philippines. Eggplant's commercial importance within the Philippines cannot be overestimated. It sustains farming communities as the number one vegetable crop in the Philippines.

Filipino eggplants are readily distinguished by their trademark violet blushed skin with green hues at stem and blossom end. They maintain the long and lean appearance of Asian eggplants as well as the rich depth of flavor that is developed when cooked. The flesh is creamy white with just a trace of seeds. The size of Filipino eggplants once harvested varies greatly. Not only do eggplants mature individually but many farmers prefer fruits that are young.

Serving Ideas

It would be amiss to not mention the dish Tortang Talong, a Filipino omelette featuring eggplant as the star ingredient. Grilled eggplants impart a smoky depth of flavor to this traditional dish featuring only a handful of ingredients. Of course, that is not where the use Filipino eggplant begins and ends. Its slender shape allow for faster cook times than bigger, rotund eggplants. Fast and hot applications such as pan frying, sauteeing and grilling enhance the fruit's texture and flavor most optimally. Complimentary ingredients include cumin, garlic, ginger, cilantro, fermented beans, chiles, soy sauce, vinegar, mushrooms, onions, sugar, olive oil, sesame oil, chicken, pork and summer vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers and squashes.

Geography/History

Unlike most of the Solanum genus, the eggplant and its relatives are from the Old World - eggplant's wild relatives are from Africa. Eggplant's domesticated ancestry can be traced to India, China and Malaysia. Filipino eggplant may actually be native to India, yet it is a staple of the Philippine culture. Although it is primarily grown within the Philippines, it has a large presence in Filipino agriculture throughout the globe. Where there are Filipino communities, there is Filipino eggplant. Farmers cultivate Filipino eggplant in abundance throughout Western United States and Hawaii. As with all eggplants, Filipino eggplant requires long days of sun and warm weather to flourish.

Seasons/Availability

Filipino eggplant is harvested in the fall.