Why is it called an eggplant? It seems like a strange name for a long, purple vegetable. But centuries ago, the original eggplants looked very different. They were small, round, and white or pale yellow—looking exactly like real eggs. That is how the plant got its unusual name.

Many people are surprised to learn that white eggplants still exist. A viral online photo recently sparked curiosity because these small, white fruits look just like chicken eggs. Both white and purple eggplants belong to the same family. You can cook them the same way: by grilling, roasting, frying, or baking them.

Raw eggplant is spongy and can taste bitter, but cooking it makes it soft and flavorful. White eggplants are a bit sweeter and more delicate than purple ones. They also have thicker skin, so people often peel them before cooking, while purple eggplants have thinner skin that is easy to eat. Just be careful not to cook either type for too long, or they will become mushy.

Eggplants have been around for a very long time. They were first mentioned in ancient Chinese writings all the way back in the year 544. From there, they spread through Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Even though purple eggplants are the most famous today, white eggplants are still grown by gardeners, keeping the vegetable’s history alive.