Description
This Irresistible Sticky Garlic Eggplant recipe is a quick and flavorful vegetarian dinner packed with umami. Tender eggplant caramelized in a glossy, sweet and garlicky sauce makes this easy Asian-inspired dish perfect for weeknights or meatless meals. A must-try for eggplant lovers and garlic fans!
Ingredients
2 medium eggplants
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 green onions, sliced
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
3 tablespoons neutral oil for frying
3 tablespoons water
Instructions
1. Cut the eggplant into bite-sized chunks. If using globe eggplant, sprinkle with salt and let sit for 15 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
2. Heat neutral oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant and fry until golden brown and tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Stir until smooth.
4. Lower the heat and pour the sauce over the cooked eggplant. Stir continuously as it thickens and becomes glossy, coating the eggplant.
5. Add chili flakes if using, and cook another minute until sauce is sticky.
6. Remove from heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and an extra drizzle of sesame oil. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
Make sure your eggplant is browned well for best flavor.
Use Japanese or Chinese eggplants for the creamiest texture.
Adjust chili level to your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Vegetarian Dinner
- Method: Pan-fry
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg