The aubergine name comes from the French language, which was influenced by the Arabic word "al-badinjan". This refers to the veggie's origins in Asia, where it was first cultivated over 2,000 years ago. As European explorers and traders traveled the world, they brought back exotic foods - including the aubergine - and its name evolved over time.
On the other hand, the eggplant name is thought to have originated from the veggie's resemblance to, you guessed it, an egg! In the 18th century, European farmers grew a variety of eggplant that was smaller, white, and egg-shaped - hence the name. Today, we have a stunning array of aubergine and eggplant varieties, with different colors, shapes, and sizes to enjoy.
