If you’re looking to add a kick of flavor and spice to your weeknight dinner, then this Szechuan Style Eggplant recipe is the perfect choice. Enjoy the bold and vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine right in the comfort of your own home. This dish combines tender eggplant with a savory and spicy sauce that will surely tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese food or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
**Szechuan Style Eggplant**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 medium-sized eggplants
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
– 3 green onions, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili paste
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and additional green onions for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Start by preparing the eggplant. Cut the eggplants into bite-sized cubes and place them in a bowl of salted water. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes to reduce bitterness.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, chili paste, and sugar to make the sauce. Set aside.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic, ginger, and green onions. Saute for a minute until fragrant.
4. Drain the eggplant and pat dry with a paper towel. Add the eggplant to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Pour the prepared sauce over the eggplant, along with the vegetable broth. Stir well to coat the eggplant evenly with the sauce.
6. Cover the skillet and let the eggplant cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Once the eggplant is cooked to your liking, remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
9. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.
10. Serve the Szechuan Style Eggplant hot over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors.
This Szechuan Style Eggplant recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of China into your home. The combination of spicy chili paste, savory soy sauce, and fragrant ginger creates a harmonious and satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a hearty meal or simply a fan of Chinese cuisine, this recipe is a must-try. So why not spice up your dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic dish? Give it a try and prepare to be amazed by the explosion of flavors in every bite.
