Steamed Eggplant Salad (Gajijjim Muchim)
How to Make Delicious Steamed Eggplant Salad as a Side Dish
A delightful side dish made with tender steamed eggplant, perfectly infused with a savory seasoning. This simple yet nutritious eggplant dish is a wonderful accompaniment to any meal, making your dining experience even more satisfying.
Main Ingredients- 3 eggplants
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce (fish sauce)
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp chopped green onion
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- A pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare 3 fresh eggplants. Wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Step 2
Cut the washed eggplants in half lengthwise, and then cut each half into two again, creating pieces that are suitable for steaming. Ensure the pieces are not too small, as they might break apart during the steaming process.
Step 3
Bring water to a boil in a steamer. Once the steam starts rising, carefully place the prepared eggplant pieces into the steamer basket. Cover and steam for about 4 to 5 minutes until the eggplant is tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
Step 4
While the eggplant is steaming, let’s prepare the seasoning. In a small bowl, combine 1 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce, 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic, 2 Tbsp finely chopped green onion, 2 Tbsp sesame oil, and 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds. Add a pinch of black pepper according to your preference. Mix all the ingredients well until a uniform seasoning paste is formed.
Step 5
Once the eggplant is steamed, remove it from the steamer and let it cool slightly for a few minutes. This allows it to become easier to handle and prevents burns.
Step 6
After it has cooled a bit, gently tear the steamed eggplant into bite-sized strips with your hands. Tearing it by hand helps to maintain the texture of the eggplant, allowing it to absorb the seasoning more effectively.
Step 7
Gently squeeze the torn eggplant strips with your hands to remove excess moisture. This crucial step prevents the dish from becoming watery and ensures the seasoning adheres well. By removing the excess water, the salad will have a better texture and a more concentrated flavor. Don’t skip this part!
Step 8
Add the squeezed eggplant to the bowl with the prepared seasoning. Gently mix and toss the eggplant with the seasoning using your hands until evenly coated. Be sure to mix gently to avoid breaking the eggplant further.
Step 9
And there you have it! Your delicious Steamed Eggplant Salad is ready. Enjoy its wonderfully tender texture and the savory, flavorful seasoning which makes it a perfect side dish.
