Spicy eggplant

spicy_eggplant

Chinese cuisine is well-known for its diverse and spicy flavours. One such dish, Spicy Eggplant, is a favourite among many for its simple yet flavourful taste. This savoury and spicy vegetarian dish is made by cooking eggplants to perfection and then smothering them with a spicy sauce, made with garlic, ginger, and chillies.

Eggplant, also known as aubergine or brinjal, has always been a prominent ingredient in Chinese cuisine. It is a versatile vegetable that is used in many dishes. While there are many ways to cook eggplant, the most popular and delicious way is to make Spicy Eggplant. Cooking this dish is relatively easy, but it requires precision to get the texture and flavours right.

The dish can be prepared in two ways: by deep-frying the eggplant or by stir-frying it. For a healthier version, stir-frying is preferred. Stir-frying requires less oil and still achieves a mouth-watering taste. The eggplant is stir-fried with garlic and ginger to give it a unique flavour. The spicy sauce is then poured over the eggplant to complete the dish.

The sauce is the most important part of the dish, as it is what gives the eggplant its signature spicy flavour. The sauce is made with a blend of spices such as soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, vinegar and chilli flakes. The addition of Szechuan peppercorns further enhances the dish’s taste by adding a mild, numbing effect. The heat level of the dish can be adjusted according to personal preference by adding more or fewer chillies.

Spicy Eggplant is a versatile dish that can be consumed as a main dish, a side dish or even as an appetiser. It pairs well with steamed rice or noodles, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. It is an excellent choice for vegetarians or anyone looking for a meat-free dish.

The origins of Spicy Eggplant are widely debated. However, it is believed to have originated in the Sichuan province of China. The spicy cuisine of Sichuan is famous for its liberal use of chillies and Szechuan peppercorns, which are also the main ingredients of the sauce used in Spicy Eggplant. Sichuan cuisine has a reputation for being one of the spiciest in China, and this dish is no different.

In conclusion, Spicy Eggplant is a delicious and healthy dish that is a must-try for anyone who loves spicy food. Its unique flavours and versatility make it a perfect dish for any occasion. It is incredibly easy to make, and the ingredients are readily available in most grocery stores. So, the next time you are in the mood for something spicy, consider making Spicy Eggplant. Your taste buds will thank you for the delicious treat.

Sure! Here’s a recipe for Chinese Spicy Eggplant:

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium eggplants
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced, white and green parts separated
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp chili bean sauce
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes until they release some moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.

  2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant slices and cook until browned and tender. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set it aside.

  3. Return the pan to the heat and add 1 tbsp oil. Add garlic, ginger, and white parts of the green onions. Cook for a minute or so until fragrant.

  4. Add the bell pepper slices, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili bean sauce, vegetable broth, sugar, cornstarch, and pepper. Stir everything together, and bring it to a simmer.

  5. Add the eggplant slices to the pan, and stir until they are coated with the sauce.

  6. Cover the pan and let everything cook for a few more minutes on low heat until the sauce has thickened and the eggplant is completely tender.

  7. Serve warm, sprinkled with fresh cilantro leaves and green parts of the green onions.

Enjoy your delicious Chinese Spicy Eggplant!