How to Cook Chinese-style Stir-Fried Eggplant with Tofu

Chinese-style stir-fried eggplant with tofu is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the rich flavors of eggplant and the protein-packed goodness of tofu. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a perfect vegan option for those looking to explore flavorful Asian cuisine. Below, find a step-by-step guide on how to cook this delectable meal.

Ingredients

To prepare Chinese-style stir-fried eggplant with tofu, you will need the following ingredients:

2 medium-sized eggplants (preferably Chinese eggplants)
1 block of firm tofu (around 14 ounces)
3 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
3 cloves of garlic (minced)
1-inch piece of ginger (grated)
1 bell pepper (cut into thin strips)
2 green onions (chopped)
1 tablespoon of sesame oil
1 tablespoon of cornstarch
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the eggplants into bite-sized pieces or strips. Place the eggplant in a colander and sprinkle with salt to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Let it sit for about 20 minutes, and then rinse and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

While waiting for the eggplant, drain the tofu and press it to remove extra moisture. Cut the tofu into cubes. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry them until golden brown on all sides. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Eggplant

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for a minute until fragrant. Next, add the prepared eggplant and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes tender and slightly browned.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the eggplant is tender, add the bell pepper strips to the pan, stirring them in for another 2-3 minutes. Then, return the fried tofu to the pan with the vegetables and mix well.

Step 5: Add Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch together to form a sauce. Pour this mixture over the stir-fried eggplant and tofu, stirring continuously to ensure everything is evenly coated. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. If the dish looks too dry, you can add a splash of water or vegetable broth.

Step 6: Serve

Finally, garnish your stir-fried eggplant with chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade Chinese-style stir-fried eggplant with tofu!

Tips for Perfect Stir-Fried Eggplant with Tofu

Choosing the right eggplant is crucial; Chinese eggplants are thinner and sweeter compared to Western varieties.
For added flavor, consider incorporating other vegetables such as mushrooms or bok choy.
Adjust the soy sauce based on your salt preference, and feel free to add chili paste for a spicy kick!

This stir-fried dish is not only satisfying but also highly customizable, making it a fun option for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create an authentic Chinese meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.