Is a Japanese Eggplant the Same as a Chinese Eggplant?

Almost. While the size and texture of both types of eggplant are very similar, Japanese eggplant has sweeter and less bitter taste.

Can I use regular eggplant instead of Japanese eggplant?

Technically yes you can since they are both aubergines. But keep in mind that the skin of a regular eggplant is thicker, and the body is much wider. This means that the cooking time will vary and take longer than a Japanese eggplant. A regular eggplant also has more seeds and is more bitter in taste. For all these reason, while it can be used instead of a Japanese eggplant, I don't recommend using one for this recipe.

Do I Need to Peel Japanese Eggplant?

No you don't since the skin is very thin and soft.

Japanese Eggplant Tartare

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Author: Caroline Phelps
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

3 Chinese or Japanese eggplants
2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced or grated
2 1/2 tablespoons high quality extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Baguette, pita, sourdough bread, or other bread, to serve with

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Instructions

Place the eggplant on a large skillet over medium heat.
Every 2 minutes or so, flip the eggplants so they cook evenly on all sides.
Once the eggplants are charred and tender – about 7 to 15 minutes depending on their size – turn the heat off and transfer them to a cutting board. Let them cool to room temperature.
Chop the ends off and peel the eggplants using a knife or your fingers.
Chop them into small pieces, like a tartare.
Transfer to a mixing bowl and add the red onion, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
Season with salt and pepper and serve with bread.

Notes

This eggplant tartare will last for up to 5 days, stored in the fridge in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 137
Sugar: 8.4g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 9.2g
Saturated Fat: 1.3g
Unsaturated Fat: 1.1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14.5g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 2.4g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Find it online: https://pickledplum.com/japanese-eggplant-tartare/