Ivory Coast Bitter Ball

The term "bitter ball" in the context of the Ivory Coast refers to a variety of African eggplant, specifically the small, bitter varieties known by names like Gnan Gnan or Solanum torvum, which are used in stews and other traditional dishes to add a unique, preferred bitter flavor. These fruits are a key part of Ivorian culinary culture, often paired with meat and other ingredients in dishes like Kittley and Bitterball Stew.