How to Prepare Vegetarian Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
How to Prepare Vegetarian Chinese Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
Chinese eggplant, with its tender flesh and mild flavor, pairs perfectly with garlic sauce to create a delectable vegetarian dish. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also results in a savory dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side. Follow these steps to prepare delicious vegetarian Chinese eggplant with garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium Chinese eggplants
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
Begin by washing the Chinese eggplants thoroughly. Cut the eggplants into bite-sized pieces or long strips, depending on your preference. To remove some of the bitterness, sprinkle salt over the cut pieces and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. Afterward, rinse the eggplant under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Mix until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce will add depth and sweetness to your eggplant dish.
Step 3: Cook the Eggplant
In a large skillet or a wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let them burn. Next, add the prepared eggplant to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and slightly browned.
Step 4: Combine Eggplant with Sauce
Once the eggplant is tender, pour the garlic sauce over the sautéed eggplant. Stir well to ensure that all the pieces are evenly coated. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and absorb into the eggplant.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the eggplant is well-coated and heated through, drizzle the sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. If you prefer a little heat, you can add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce at this point.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the vegetarian Chinese eggplant with garlic sauce to a serving dish, and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot over cooked rice for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or when entertaining guests, as it offers a simple yet impressive way to enjoy eggplant.
Follow these steps and enjoy your delightful homemade vegetarian Chinese eggplant with garlic sauce. With its irresistible flavor and textures, this dish will surely become a family favorite!