Solanum gilo
Ubiquitous in the Southeast region, the scarlet eggplant is in fact a fruit, although it is prepared as a vegetable. Some people complain about its bitter taste, the main feature of this food, but there are some tricks to minimize it: eat the scarlet eggplant while is still green, to help soften the aftertaste; soak it in salted water before cooking; or serve it with something sweeter, to counterbalance the bitterness. Even with the skin and sees on, it is good sautéed in oil with garlic, breaded and deep fried, grilled, or as a complement to salads and side dishes. It is often served with Feijão tropeiro (beans and meats mixed with manioc flour and seasonings).
