Description
Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce is a delicious, savory dish that features tender eggplant cooked in a rich, flavorful garlic sauce. This vegetarian recipe combines umami, sweetness, and heat, making it an irresistible option for a side or main dish. Whether served over steamed rice or noodles, this dish is easy to prepare, full of bold flavors, and perfect for anyone who loves Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients
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2 medium Chinese eggplants (or Japanese eggplants)
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons ginger, minced
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
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1/2 cup water
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Eggplants:
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Cut the eggplants into 2-inch long pieces, then slice each piece into halves or quarters, depending on the size.
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Cook the Eggplants:
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Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant pieces and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown and tender (about 7-10 minutes). Remove the eggplant from the pan and set it aside.
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Prepare the Garlic Sauce:
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In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, and water to the pan. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
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Thicken the Sauce:
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Stir in the cornstarch mixture (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
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Combine Eggplant and Sauce:
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Add the cooked eggplant back into the pan with the garlic sauce. Toss everything together so the eggplant is evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
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Garnish and Serve:
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Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
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Notes
Spicy Garlic Sauce: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers for an extra spicy kick.Add Vegetables: You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to the dish for more variety.Add Protein: For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp to make it more hearty.Sweet and Sour Twist: Substitute the sugar with pineapple juice or add pineapple chunks for a tangy flavor.
