UK: Waitrose first to launch ‘snowbergines’
Early varieties of aubergine were traditionally white skinned, which coined the name 'eggplant' in America, as they resembled goose eggs.
The white aubergines launching at Waitrose are similar in shape to the regular purple variety but are creamier and milder in taste, giving them a wonderful capacity to take on other flavours, including tomatoes, spices or cheese. They also absorb less moisture when cooking than purple aubergines, meaning they soak up less oil, resulting in a lower calorie dish.
White aubergines have the same familiar shape but are slightly smaller than the most common variety. They are best served roasted or chargrilled – making them the perfect vegetable for the barbecue.
Jade Symonds, Waitrose Vegetable Buyer, comments, “Aubergines are particularly popular during the summer months as they are great for grilling. It's the perfect time to introduce a new speciality range of aubergines, which includes our 'snowbergine' as well as a striking purple and white striped variety.”
White aubergines, which are grown in Holland, are on sale at Waitrose shops nationwide from this week and will be available until the end of June at £1.35 each.