Eggplant Szechuan Style
Description
This Szechuan-style eggplant dish delivers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite. The tender eggplant strips absorb a rich sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of red wine vinegar, creating a deeply flavorful experience. Fresh water chestnuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft vegetables. Garnished with toasted sesame seeds and scallions, this vegan-friendly side dish is both visually appealing and satisfying. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, making it an ideal addition to any Asian-inspired meal. Quick to prepare and bursting with authentic aromas, this recipe is a reliable favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.Ingredients
Directions
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Cut eggplants into 1/2-inch wide by 2-inch long strips.
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Mix together soy sauce, sugar, and chicken stock in a small bowl; set aside.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wide, flat skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add half of the eggplant strips and sauté, stirring constantly, until seared and wilted, about 5 minutes.
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Remove cooked eggplant to a plate.
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Add more oil if needed and cook the remaining eggplant strips until seared and wilted.
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Transfer the second batch of eggplant to the plate with the first batch.
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Heat a wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
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Add ginger, garlic, and dried red chile flakes; cook gently for 30 seconds, ensuring they do not brown.
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Add water chestnuts and half of the chopped scallions; stir-fry for 5 seconds.
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Increase heat to high and add the reserved soy sauce mixture and the cooked eggplant.
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Toss quickly over high heat until the sauce is reduced and absorbed into the eggplant, about 1 to 2 minutes.
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Fold in the red wine vinegar and Asian sesame oil.
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Remove the mixture to a serving dish.
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Top with the remaining chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
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Serve hot or cold.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 37.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.3g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 4.5mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 8.9g3%
- Dietary Fiber 4.5g18%
- Sugars 5.2g
- Protein 1.5g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
szechuan, eggplant, chinese, stir-fry, vegan, side dish, water chestnuts, garlic, ginger, spicy, soy sauce, sesame oil, scallions, chile flakes, savory, quick dinner