Spicy Eggplant

Spicy Eggplant Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Dish from Jamaica

Region / culture: Jamaica | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spicy Eggplant is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals. This dish combines tender eggplant with a savory and spicy sauce that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

History

The origins of Spicy Eggplant can be traced back to traditional Chinese cuisine, where eggplant is a popular ingredient in many dishes. This recipe has been adapted and modified over the years to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

2 medium-sized eggplants (about 2 lb or 907 g), peeled and cut into 0.75" pieces
1 tbsp oil
5 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tsp minced fresh ginger
0.5 cup chicken bouillon or vegetable broth
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp dark sesame oil
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp hot chile-garlic sauce
4 scallions, chopped
1 or 2 tomatoes, coarsely chopped

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large non-stick pan or wok.
Stir-fry the eggplant until slightly darkened, for 2 to 3 minutes.
Reduce the heat and add the garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
Add the bouillon, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and chili-garlic sauce. Bring to a boil.
Cook uncovered and stir often until the eggplants are tender and the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the onions and tomatoes, and season with salt to taste.
Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Variations

Add tofu or chicken for extra protein.
Substitute the eggplant with zucchini or bell peppers for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to peel the eggplant before cutting it into pieces to ensure a smooth texture.

- Stir-fry the eggplant until slightly darkened to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

- Adjust the amount of chili-garlic sauce according to your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Spicy Eggplant can be served as a main dish with steamed rice or noodles. It can also be served as a side dish with other Chinese-inspired dishes.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the main cooking technique used in this recipe to ensure that the eggplant is cooked evenly and retains its texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer flavor.

- Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a healthier alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the eggplant just before serving for the best results.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Spicy Eggplant pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 180 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 23g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 7g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 4g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 15% of the daily recommended intake

- Vitamin K: 10% of the daily recommended intake

- Folate: 8% of the daily recommended intake

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. Please check the label if you have a gluten allergy.

Summary

Spicy Eggplant is a nutritious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a balanced and flavorful meal.

Summary

Spicy Eggplant is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was handwritten on a yellowed piece of paper, tucked away in an old cookbook I had inherited from my own grandmother. The title simply read “Spicy Eggplant,” and as I scanned over the list of ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the flavors coming off the page.

I had always been a fan of eggplant, with its meaty texture and ability to soak up any flavors you throw at it. But this recipe promised to take it to a whole new level with a blend of spices and seasonings that I had never thought to pair with the vegetable before.

I set to work gathering the ingredients, most of which I already had on hand in my pantry. The only thing I needed to pick up from the store was a fresh eggplant, and as I stood in the produce aisle examining the glossy purple skin of the vegetable, I felt a sense of anticipation building within me. This was going to be something special.

Back in my kitchen, I began to follow the instructions laid out in the recipe. I sliced the eggplant into thick rounds and coated them in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. The spices clung to the eggplant like a fragrant cloak, promising a burst of flavor with every bite.

As I popped the pan into the oven and watched the eggplant sizzle and brown, I could hardly contain my excitement. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, a heady blend of spices and roasted vegetables that made my mouth water in anticipation.

When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the pan out of the oven and carefully plated the spicy eggplant. The vibrant purple color of the vegetable was now tinged with a golden hue, the spices having caramelized and melded into a delicious crust on the surface.

I took a tentative bite, and my taste buds exploded with a symphony of flavors. The eggplant was tender and creamy, the spices adding a kick of heat that danced on my tongue. It was everything I had hoped for and more, a dish that spoke to my soul and reminded me of the joy that cooking could bring.

From that moment on, spicy eggplant became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I prepared it, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I had mastered a recipe that brought so much joy to those who tasted it.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of spicy eggplant to a new generation. It became a beloved dish in our household, a symbol of warmth and comfort that never failed to bring a smile to our faces.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this wonderful recipe, I am filled with gratitude for all the people and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. From my grandmother's old cookbook to the farmer's market where I first picked out that perfect eggplant, each moment has played a part in bringing me to this place of culinary bliss.

And so, I continue to cook and create, always seeking out new recipes and flavors to add to my repertoire. But no matter how many dishes I try or techniques I master, spicy eggplant will always hold a special place in my heart as the recipe that started it all.