Description
This Sticky Garlic Eggplant recipe features tender, caramelized eggplant slices coated in a luscious, glossy garlic-soy sauce with a hint of sweetness and spice. Quick and easy to prepare, this flavorful dish makes a perfect vegetarian appetizer or side, combining Asian-inspired ingredients for a savory, satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Eggplant
- 2 medium Asian or Chinese eggplants
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Other
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (vegetable or avocado oil)
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick diagonal slices for even cooking and optimal caramelization.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, and red chili flakes. Set aside.
- Heat Oil: Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for searing.
- Sear Eggplant: Cook the eggplant slices in batches, 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and tender.
- Stir-Fry Garlic: Lower heat to medium-low, add minced garlic to the pan, and stir-fry for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Eggplant and Sauce: Return all the cooked eggplant to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce.
- Simmer: Gently toss to combine and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the eggplant with a glossy finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Turn off heat, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute dark soy sauce with additional regular soy sauce if unavailable.
- Adjust red chili flakes to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- Use Asian or Chinese eggplants for the best texture and flavor, but regular eggplants can be used as a substitute.
- To make this dish vegan, ensure the soy sauces used are vegan-friendly.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
