Spicy and Savory Stir-Fried Eggplant
Chinese-Style Eggplant Stir-Fry with Doubanjiang for a Spicy Kick
I absolutely love eggplant, so I often make it stir-fried. Adding doubanjiang gives it a spicy and unique flavor that’s different from the usual. This recipe offers a delightful texture and a taste that complements rice perfectly.
Main Ingredients
- 2 eggplants
- 1 onion
- 1/2 white part of a leek
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash and peel the onion, then slice it into thin strips about 0.5 cm thick. The onion’s sweetness and aroma will add depth to the stir-fry.
Step 2
Trim and wash the leek, focusing on the white part. Chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. The leek’s fragrant aroma will cut through any richness and enhance the overall flavor.
Step 3
Wash the eggplants thoroughly and remove the stems. Cut them into segments about two finger-widths long (approximately 5-6 cm). Avoid cutting them too thinly, as they can become mushy when stir-fried. This length ensures a pleasant texture.
Step 4
Stand the cut eggplant segments upright and slice them lengthwise into quarters. This shape allows the sauce to penetrate the eggplant pieces effectively and makes them easier to eat.
Step 5
Heat a large wok or skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of cooking oil. Add the sliced onion, prepared eggplant, and chopped leek to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the eggplant begins to turn translucent and the onion softens slightly. Eggplant absorbs oil well, so don’t be shy with the oil; it contributes to a richer flavor.
Step 6
Once the vegetables are about 80% cooked, add the soy sauce, chili oil, oyster sauce, and doubanjiang to the pan. Increase the heat to high and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly. The combination of the savory doubanjiang, the heat from the chili oil, and the umami from the oyster sauce creates a wonderfully balanced flavor profile.
Step 7
Transfer the finished stir-fried eggplant to a serving plate. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty flavor and visual appeal.
Step 8
The doubanjiang provides a pleasant spiciness and a deep, savory taste that makes this dish an excellent accompaniment to rice. If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying side dish, this spicy eggplant stir-fry is a must-try!
