Toga Eggplant
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Toga eggplants are small, averaging 5 to 8 centimeters in length, and have an elongated, oval to oblong appearance with a bluntly curved, slightly tapered nature. Each eggplant has semi-thin, smooth, taut, and glossy skin, ripening from green to golden orange-yellow hues. Toga eggplants are known for their distinct dark green striping across the surface. It is important to note that most Toga eggplants are harvested in their green state to keep the skin thinner and less tough. As the variety matures and changes color, the skin becomes thicker. Underneath the surface, the pale yellow-green flesh is aqueous, soft, and succulent, encasing many tiny, flat, and round cream-colored seeds. These seeds create a crunchy, chewy consistency in the flesh. Toga eggplants are edible raw or cooked and have a subtly sweet, bitter taste. As the eggplant ages, it becomes more bitter.
Seasons/Availability
Toga eggplants are available year-round in tropical regions. In sub-tropical to temperate areas, they are mostly found between July and October.
Current Facts
Toga eggplants, botanically classified as Solanum aethiopicum, are an African species belonging to the Solanaceae, or nightshade family. The small eggplants grow in clusters on bushy, compact plants reaching 1.8 meters in height and are a part of the Gilo group, a category of cultivars within the African species. Historically, Toga eggplants were utilized as a culinary and medicinal ingredient throughout Africa, and over time, they expanded in cultivation to regions worldwide. Toga eggplants are also known as Striped Toga, Striped Togo, Gilo, Africa, Scarlet, and Ethiopian eggplants, Garden eggs, and Mock tomatoes. The eggplants are ready for harvest approximately 70 to 90 days after sowing and are a productive, easy-to-grow variety that transports well and is known for its extended storage capabilities. Toga eggplants are incorporated into a wide array of savory culinary preparations and are also utilized as a colorful ornamental in home gardens.
Nutritional Value
Toga eggplants have not been extensively studied for their nutritional properties. African eggplants, in general, are a source of fiber to aid digestion and vitamins B and C to strengthen the immune system and contribute to energy production. Eggplants also provide beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body to maintain healthy organs. Minerals in eggplants include calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These minerals help the body balance fluid levels, support bone and teeth health, control daily nerve functions, and produce proteins for oxygen transport through the bloodstream. Eggplants also contain antioxidants to reduce inflammation and promote overall bodily health. In Africa, the plant's fruits, roots, and leaves are sometimes used in natural medicines to relieve gas, topically soothe skin irritations, and lessen other digestive ailments.
Applications
Toga eggplants have a subtly sweet, bitter taste suited for fresh and cooked preparations. Some African communities consume the eggplants raw in salads, but discretion should be used, as only some eggplant types are edible fresh. Toga eggplants are also pickled as a tangy condiment. In addition to raw dishes, Toga eggplants are widely added to soups, stews, and curries worldwide. In Africa, especially in Ghana, Ethiopia, and Côte d'Ivoire, Toga eggplants are cooked in hearty, savory stews and served with fried plantains, boiled yams, rice, or regionally made dough. The eggplants are also used to thicken sauces and are boiled and stewed. Worldwide, Toga eggplants are sliced and fried, stuffed and cooked, or grilled on skewers. They are also sauteed with other vegetables or served with rich meats. Toga eggplants pair well with aromatics such as onions, garlic, chile peppers, and ginger, herbs including Thai basil, coriander, and oregano, and meats like pork, poultry, and beef. Whole, unwashed Toga eggplants will keep for a few days to weeks when stored loosely in a bag with paper towels and placed in a cool, dry, and dark location, such as the refrigerator.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Toga eggplants are occasionally used in decorative floral arrangements. The eggplants remain firmly attached to the branches once cut from the plant and are woven between frilled leafy greens and blooms to add color, distinct shapes, and visual enhancement to bouquets. The leaves are also removed from the branches, leaving only the small eggplants attached, giving them an artistic look. Eggplants are not widely recognized as an essential floral arrangement element, but their popularity is increasing in Europe and North America. Another decorative eggplant, known as Pumpkin On A Stick, is commonly used for festive, seasonal fall arrangements, as the eggplants resemble tiny pumpkins.
Geography/History
Toga eggplants are native to Africa and have been growing wild since ancient times throughout sub-Saharan regions. The species as a whole, Solanum aethiopicum, is hypothesized to have been domesticated from the wild Solanum anguivi species and the semi-domesticated Solanum distichum. Much of the history of Toga eggplants is unknown, besides their beginnings in Africa and their eventual spread worldwide. The species was thought to be carried along trade routes into the Middle East, later spreading to Europe, and transported to Brazil, expanding into South America. Today, Toga eggplants are grown worldwide as a specialty culinary crop and home garden plant. The species can be sown in small spaces and is often seen in front or back yards, between buildings, along roadways, near fences, and in public gardens throughout Africa. In other regions worldwide, the species is primarily planted in small quantities on farms and home gardens. When in season, Toga eggplants are sold through fresh markets.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Toga Eggplant. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Sicilian Creative in the Kitchen |
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Baked Eggplant Salad, with Feta and Tomatoes |
| Classical Kitchen |
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Summer Quinoa with Herbs and Toga Eggplant |
Toga Eggplant for sale around the world shared on the Specialty Produce App
