Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a versatile vegetable with a smooth, glossy skin and a meaty texture. It has a mild, slightly bitter flavor that becomes creamy and rich when cooked. Eggplant is commonly used in a variety of cuisines around the world, including Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian dishes. It can be grilled, roasted, sautéed, or fried, and is often used in dishes like ratatouille, moussaka, and baba ganoush.