Brinjal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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brinjal
[หbrษชn.dสษl ]
Definition
food item
Brinjal, commonly known as eggplant, is a vegetable that is typically purple in color and is used in various cuisines around the world. It is a member of the nightshade family and is known for its unique texture and flavor. Brinjal can be prepared in numerous ways, including roasting, grilling, and frying.
Synonyms
aubergine, eggplant, melongene.
Examples of usage
- I made a delicious brinjal curry for dinner.
- Brinjal is rich in antioxidants and is good for health.
- Many Mediterranean dishes feature brinjal as a key ingredient.
- The chef garnished the dish with grilled brinjal slices.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Culinary Uses
- This vegetable is a key ingredient in many vegetarian dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and dips.
- Stuffed brinjal recipes are popular in Indian cuisine, often filled with spices and other vegetables.
- In Mediterranean cuisine, it's commonly grilled or roasted and featured in dishes like ratatouille.
Nutrition
- Brinjal is low in calories but rich in dietary fiber, making it a great choice for healthy eating.
- It contains antioxidants, particularly nasunin, which is known for protecting brain cells from damage.
- The presence of vitamins such as B1, B6, and K contributes to its status as a nutrient-dense food.
Botanical Facts
- It belongs to the Nightshade family, which includes tomatoes and potatoes.
- Despite its common name, brinjal can come in various colors, including white, green, and striped varieties.
- The plant typically grows to about 2โ3 feet tall and produces flowers before developing the fruit.
Cultural Significance
- In Indian culture, brinjal is often associated with home-cooked meals and traditional recipes.
- In parts of the Middle East, it is featured in dishes like baba ghanoush, a popular eggplant dip.
- Folklore in some cultures regards it as a symbol of prosperity and abundance.
Origin of 'brinjal'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'brinjal' comes from the Latin word 'brinjalum', which referred to the eggplant.
- In many countries, it's known as 'eggplant' due to its oval shape and glossy skin resembling an egg.
- The term 'brinjal' is widely used in South Asian cuisines, showing its cultural significance in those regions.
The word 'brinjal' comes from the Portuguese term 'berinjela,' which refers to the eggplant. The term is believed to be derived from the Arabic 'bฤแธตlวnวjฤn,' which has roots in Persian as 'bฤd-anjฤn.' Brinjal is prevalent in South Asian cuisine and has been cultivated for thousands of years. It is thought to have originated in India, where it has been used in cooking since ancient times. The vegetable was then spread to other parts of the world, including Europe and North Africa, via trade routes. The eggplant has been a staple in various cuisines due to its versatility, flavor, and nutritional benefits. Today, brinjal is celebrated in various culinary traditions worldwide, showcasing its wide-ranging impact on global cuisine.