Eggplants, also known as aubergines, belong to the nightshade family of plants and are used in many different dishes around the world. They are usually considered a vegetable but because they contain seeds and grow from a flowering plant, they are actually a fruit. There are many varieties. Eggplants with a deep purple skin are most common, but they can be red, green or even black. Eggplant is a high-fiber, low-calorie food that is rich in nutrients and comes with many potential health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease, and helping with blood sugar control and weight loss.