How to Make Chinese Shrimp and Eggplant Stir Fry
If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish, Chinese shrimp and eggplant stir fry is an excellent choice. This savory meal brings together juicy shrimp and tender eggplant, all bathed in a flavorful sauce. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delightful dish right at home.
Ingredients
To make Chinese shrimp and eggplant stir fry, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
Begin by preparing the eggplant. Slice the eggplants into thin pieces and sprinkle with a little salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture and bitterness. After 15 minutes, rinse the eggplant with water and pat them dry with a towel.
Step 2: Cook the Eggplant
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant slices and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the eggplant is tender and slightly browned. Transfer the cooked eggplant to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Ginger
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be sure to stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked eggplant to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Toss everything together to ensure the shrimp and eggplant are evenly coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Once done, remove from heat. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions before serving.
Tips for Cooking
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers to the stir fry.
- Pair this dish with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
This Chinese shrimp and eggplant stir fry is not only scrumptious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Enjoy your homemade meal and savor every bite!