Spicy, Sweet, and Tangy Gochujang Chili Glazed Eggplant
An Exquisite Fusion Dish with Seasonal Eggplant: Gochujang Chili Glazed Eggplant
This is the fourth recipe featuring eggplant, a star vegetable of the summer season, now at its peak sweetness and nutritional value. We’ve used ripe tomatoes and eggplant, rich in antioxidants like lycopene and anthocyanins, to create a Korean-style Gochujang Chili Sauce. This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients without using any store-bought sauces, ketchup, or refined sugar. Experience a unique twist on eggplant dishes with the chewy texture of grilled eggplant complemented by a sweet, spicy, and tangy chili sauce. Prepare to delight your taste buds with this vibrant creation!
Gochujang Chili Sauce Ingredients- 3-4 ripe, fully ripened tomatoes (or 3-4 Tbsp commercial tomato puree/ketchup)
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp ground toasted sesame seeds
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch (mixed with water at a 1:1 ratio to create a slurry)
- 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 Tbsp lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s make the homemade tomato sauce. Prepare 3-4 ripe tomatoes, chop them into bite-sized pieces, and place them in a pot. Add a little water and simmer over high heat for about 30-40 minutes until the tomatoes are very soft. For added flavor and aroma, you can add a pinch of salt, minced garlic, onion, basil, or a bay leaf. (Photos of the tomato sauce making process can be omitted.)
Step 2
Now, let’s prepare the ingredients for the Gochujang Chili Sauce. Gather all seven components: the homemade tomato sauce (or commercial puree/ketchup), Gochujang, minced garlic, ground toasted sesame seeds, cornstarch slurry, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. (Note: Minced garlic was accidentally omitted from the photo but is essential for the sauce.)
Step 3
Heat a pan with a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Then, add 3-4 tablespoons of tomato sauce and 1 tablespoon of Gochujang. Stir well and cook over low heat, ensuring it doesn’t burn, until the flavors meld together. Proper sautéing is key for a delicious sauce base.
Step 4
Once the sauce begins to simmer, gradually add the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously. It’s important to stir briskly to prevent lumps from forming. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little water. Add the cornstarch slurry when the sauce just starts to thicken.
Step 5
When the sauce reaches your desired consistency, turn off the heat. The residual heat will continue to cook it gently. Proceed to the next step while the sauce is still warm.
Step 6
Finally, stir in 3 tablespoons of lemon juice until well combined. The bright tanginess of the lemon juice will beautifully balance the savory and spicy notes of the Gochujang, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Step 7
Your delicious Korean-style Gochujang Chili Sauce is now complete! This versatile sauce is perfect not only for grilled eggplant but can also be used in various other dishes.
Step 8
Thoroughly wash the two medium eggplants. Slice them diagonally at about a 1-1.5 cm thickness. Cutting them in a zigzag pattern not only looks appealing but also helps the sauce penetrate better. Avoid slicing them too thinly, as they might shrink and lose their shape during cooking.
Step 9
Sprinkle a pinch of fine salt evenly over the sliced eggplant and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, resulting in a chewier texture, and allows the eggplant to absorb some seasoning.
Step 10
Arrange the seasoned eggplant slices in an air fryer basket and cook at 160°C (320°F) for approximately 7 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so check for doneness until the eggplant is lightly golden and tender. You can also grill them in an oven or pan.
Step 11
Let’s get everything ready for assembly! Prepare the lightly grilled eggplant, the homemade tomato sauce (or store-bought alternative), and the finely chopped Korean green chili peppers.
Step 12
Arrange the grilled eggplant attractively on a serving plate. Generously drizzle the prepared Gochujang Chili Sauce over the eggplant. Finally, sprinkle the chopped green chili peppers on top for garnish. Your beautiful Gochujang Chili Glazed Eggplant is ready to be enjoyed! Savor this delightful dish.
