Description
This Chinese eggplant with garlic sauce is a deliciously savory dish perfect for those who love robust flavors in plant-based meals. The eggplant is tender on the inside yet crispy on the outside, all thanks to a simple cornstarch coating that locks in flavor without excessive oil. The ginger and garlic add a fragrant depth, while the dark soy sauce gives the dish a rich color. Ideal as a main over rice or noodles or as a flavorful side, this dish offers a delightful blend of sweet, salty, and umami notes. It’s a wonderful example of how a few simple ingredients and techniques can elevate vegetables, making them shine in a vegan-friendly, gluten-free adaptable recipe that satisfies with every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 Chinese eggplants (about 10 oz each), chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or regular soy sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preparation:
- Soak eggplant slices in salted water (1 teaspoon salt in enough water to cover eggplant) for 15 minutes. Drain and pat dry thoroughly.
- Sprinkle eggplant with cornstarch and toss until evenly coated.
- Cook the Eggplant:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Spread the eggplant in a single layer, cooking without overlapping, until browned and softened (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove eggplant from the pan and set aside.
- Add Aromatics & Sauce:
- Add remaining oil, ginger, and garlic to the skillet, stirring until fragrant.
- Return eggplant to skillet, pour sauce over, and stir until sauce thickens and evenly coats the eggplant. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-4
- Calories: 122 kcal