Description
This flavorful eggplant recipe is packed with savory, slightly sweet, and tangy flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. With tender eggplant, fragrant spices, and a rich umami sauce, this dish is a family favorite that can be served warm or chilled as a main course or side dish. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for meal prep!
Ingredients
- 2 eggplants (approximately 600g)
- 2 pinches of salt
- Vegetable oil (as needed for frying)
- 1 carrot, peeled and finely diced
- 250g paprika, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon coriander
- ⅓ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- A bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Additional salt (to taste)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Eggplant
- Wash and trim the eggplants, then cut them into thick slices or cubes.
- Sprinkle with salt and let them rest for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Pat them dry with paper towels.
-
Fry the Eggplant
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the eggplant in batches, cooking for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
-
Prepare the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion over medium heat until soft (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in coriander, black pepper, and minced garlic.
-
Make the Sauce
- Add paprika, diced carrot, and soy sauce to the skillet.
- Stir in apple cider vinegar and sugar, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
-
Combine Everything
- Fold in the fried eggplant, making sure each piece is coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
-
Garnish and Serve
- Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle generously with fresh parsley.
-
Chill for Best Flavor (Optional)
- For an even richer taste, refrigerate for at least 60 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a main dish or side.
Notes
✔️ For a healthier version, bake the eggplant at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes instead of frying.
✔️ To add heat, include chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
✔️ Best served with rice, quinoa, or grilled protein.
✔️ Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔️ Reheat in a skillet or oven at 180°C (350°F) for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing & Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired