If you're craving a dish that bursts with flavor and showcases the vibrant essence of Chinese cuisine, look no further than this wok-fried Chinese-style eggplant! This mouthwatering recipe transforms humble eggplants into a delectable masterpiece, perfectly seasoned and stir-fried to perfection. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be amazed at how easily you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick and delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Wash the eggplants and cut them into 1-inch diagonal slices, ensuring uniform thickness for even cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and set aside as a seasoning sauce for later use.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and becomes hot.
- Add minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil, stirring quickly to release their aromatic flavors without burning.
- Carefully add eggplant slices to the wok, spreading them in a single layer to ensure maximum surface contact and proper browning.
- Stir-fry the eggplant for 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they become golden brown and start to soften.
- Add sliced bell peppers to the wok and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture over the eggplant and peppers, stirring to coat evenly and allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the eggplant is tender and has absorbed the sauce.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped green onions.
- Serve hot as a side dish or with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose the Right Eggplants: Opt for medium-sized eggplants that are firm and glossy. This ensures a better texture and flavor in your dish.
- Uniform Slicing: Cut the eggplants into 1-inch diagonal slices for even cooking. This helps them brown nicely and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- High Heat is Key: Make sure your wok or skillet is hot before adding the oil. This helps to achieve that perfect sear on the eggplant, enhancing its flavor and texture.
- Don’t Rush the Stir-Fry: Allow the eggplant to cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. This promotes browning and caramelization, adding depth to the dish.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or snap peas for extra color and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Serve with Rice: For a complete meal, serve this dish over steamed rice or alongside noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or additional green onions for a burst of freshness and crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
