How to Make Chinese Eggplant in Garlic Sauce

Here’s another delicious and uncomplicated dish you can perfectly make – the Chinese eggplant in garlic sauce. With just the right amount of spice and heat, you’ll transform this simple meal into an exciting one!

SERVING:

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 4-5 Chinese eggplants – about 5 lbs. total
• 2 tsps. cornstarch        
• 2 tsps. soy sauce – low sodium only
• 1 tsp rice vinegar     
• 2 tbsp. light brown sugar                                  
• 1 tsp garlic powder                                                
• 3 – 4 scallions – thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp. hoisin sauce
• ½ tsp Chinese five spice powder
• 6 garlic cloves – chopped
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes – to taste
• 1 ½ – 2 tsps. chili oil
• vegetable oil
• salt & pepper

METHOD:

1. Mix ¾ cups of water and cornstarch in a medium bowl and whisk to combine well. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, Chinese five spice powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes and whisk all together until completely combined. Set aside.
2. Slice off the ends of the eggplants and then slice them into thirds lengthwise so that you have 3 sections. Slice each section lengthwise into quarters so that you end up with sticks.
3. Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the eggplant sticks, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 8 – 10 minutes until lightly charred and soft. Transfer to a bowl and repeat with the remaining eggplant strips.
4. Deglaze the pan with 2 – 3 tablespoons water, scraping up all the brown bits on the bottom of the pan. Pour into the bowl with the eggplant. Lower the heat to medium and add a teaspoon of oil to the hot skillet. Sauté the garlic and scallions for about almost a minute.
5. Add the eggplant and chili oil to the skillet and toss well. Season everything with salt, then stir to combine all. Cook for 6-8 minutes in order for the eggplant to absorb all the flavors.
6. Serve hot and garnish with more sliced scallions. There you have it! Enjoy your eggplants in garlic sauce.

Note: As most of these spices add saltiness to the dish, use your discretion when it comes to seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. When ready to serve, you can also sprinkle some sesame seeds if you like.

Buon Mangiata!