The many benefits of eggplant

1. It is versatile – stuff it, mash it, bake it, fry it, grill it. Rustle up a baba ganoush, a classic ratatouille, eggplant chips or a desi bharta.

2. It’s only 35 calories per cup, thanks to its high fibre and water content.

3. Most middle-eastern and Italian recipes involve cooking whole aubergines (with peel), which is healthier since most of the antioxidants are wrapped in its purple skin.

4. Ayurveda recommends eggplant for curing insomnia and other sleep disorders.

5. Research shows aubergines can lower ‘bad’ cholesterol, provided you bake or grill them.

6. For centuries, eggplants have been used for controlling and managing diabetes, thanks to its high fibre and low carb content.

7. Purple fruits and veggies like beetroot, blueberries, plums and brinjals contain anthocyanin (which provides their colour) – a powerful antioxidant.

8. Eggplant works well as a complementary ingredient, balancing and enhancing the surrounding flavours of the dish.

9. Since eggplants contain almost no fat or cholesterol, it is healthy for people trying to lose weight.

10. Eggplants also have significant amounts of iron and calcium, which are integral to bone health and overall strength.